Mary J. Lechten

Madison -- Mary J. Lechten, age 68, died on Friday, May 8, 2009 at her home in Madison. She was born on October 2, 1940 to Adolfo and Josephine (Pacini) Massari in Wales, Great Britain. Mary received a degree in higher education in the U.K. She attended the University of Madison, where she received a master's degree in education. Mary met her husband, Karl, in 1966 in Newport, Wales, and they were united in marriage in 1968 while Karl served in the army in Maryland. Mary spent her career teaching special education at several different levels. She retired in 2008 after teaching over 20 years with the McFarland School District. Mary was an active member at St. Joseph's Catholic Church. She was an advocate for her students. Mary is survived by her husband, Karl; three children, Jeff (Leslea) Lechten, Kirk (Gwyn) Lechten, Leslee (Lori) Lechten; five grandchildren, Hallie, Kellie, Trevar, and twins, Rowan and Sebastian; a sister, Carole (Paul) Bartley of the U.K.; a dear friend, Jean Hodge; and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; and a brother, Paul. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 16, 2009 at ST. JOSEPH'S CATHOLIC CHURCH, 1905 W. Beltline Hwy, Madison, with Msgr. Thomas F. Baxter presiding. A visitation will be held from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service. Burial will follow at Resurrection Catholic Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations in Mary's name would be appreciated to Special Olympics, 5900 Monona Drive #301, Monona, WI 53716.