Mary Elsner

Mary Elizabeth Elsner, age 53, of Sun Prairie passed away on Friday, January 4th 2019 ending her battle with cancer. She was born on September 14th, 1965 in Oak Park, Illinois, the daughter of Patrick and Elizabeth (Sue) O'Rell. The family moved to rural Richland Center, Wisconsin when Mary was two. She graduated from Viroqua High School before making her journey to Madison where she met her future husband of 34 years, Randy Elsner.

While their only son, Scott was in High School; she decided she wanted to pursue a college degree. Taking classes at MATC led her to UW-Whitewater, where Scott was already a student. Both were music students, had some classes together and were in several performance ensembles together. While in the Marching Band for 2 years together was where she earned the title of "Band Mom". She was a fellow student, mentor and friend to students half her age.

While still a student, Mary started working at WSMA, Wisconsin School Music Association. This may be where she impacted the most lives. She enjoyed advocating for and working with young musicians and singers. She had a gift of making sure all "her kids" were treated properly and listened too. Many of these talented youths had never had an adult treat them as special individuals who deserved to be heard and listened to.

Mary's Celebration of Life will be held at the Wisconsin Center for Music Education, January 19th at 4 PM - 6:30 PM, 1005 Quinn Dr, Waunakee Wisconsin hosted by Wisconsin School Music Association. For more details, search "Celebration for Mary Elsner!" on Facebook.

In lieu of flowers, donations are appreciated to WSMA for innovative programs for which Mary was a champion!

Cress Funeral & Cremation Service
1310 Emerald Terrace
Sun Prairie, WI 53590
608-837-9054