Mary Pieper

Stoughton- Mary Pieper passed away peacefully on Monday, January 17, 2022 at the age of 77.

Beloved wife of Ronald J. Pieper. Dearest mother of Teri (Eric) Moe, James (Lisa) Pieper, and Steven (Jill) Pieper. Loving grandmother of Ryan (Brittany), Allie, and Lizzie Moe, and Ethan, Emma Kate, and Owen Pieper, and future great grandson.

Mary had a warmth about her that made everyone in the room feel her presence and kindness. Steadfast in her Christian beliefs, she was accepting to all and those who knew Mary love her so deeply. Her family and friends are facing an unimaginable grief in this time following her passing. While she would have been overjoyed to see the weddings, great grandchildren, and the exciting futures of her children and grandchildren, her family knows Mary is always with them in their hearts. Mary and Ron built a legacy that will carry on for generations to come, a legacy of strength, empathy, and grace.

Mary grew up a city girl in Madison listening to Elvis and Johnny Cash, but upon meeting Ron at the Stoughton Fair, decided a farm life was right for her. They raised three kids, did square dancing for years in matching outfits, and then when the cows were sold, travelled all around the US. Her favorite trip was up to Alaska, so, good job, Alaska, for being cool. She was proud of her work as a licensed optician, helping hundreds find their perfect look, starting with Barry Optical, moving to UW Health, and finishing her career with Wright Vision Care in Sun Prairie. Once the grandkids arrived, she supported them all she could – attending sporting events and concerts, teaching them to bake, and having root beer floats while sitting on the porch playing the car game.

Mary’s story would not be complete without mention of Tess, her rat terrier. A rescue, Tess quickly became a source of joy and companionship for her.

Mary is survived by siblings Jerry (Judy) Crotsenberg, Maxine Klumb, Daniel (Joan) Kossel, and Barb (John) Moknes. Further survived by sister-in-law Mary Schultz and brother-in-law Ken Kluever. Preceded in death by siblings Dick (Nancy) Crotsenberg and Delores Westphal, brother-in-law Howard (Monyieene) Bjoin, and sisters-in-law Ardra (Donald) Juve and Thyra Kluever. Further survived by nieces, nephews, other relatives and many good friends.

A private funeral service will be held on February 4, 2022 at First Lutheran Church Stoughton.  A Celebration of Mary’s life on June 5, 2022 will be hosted by the family for all who wish to join.

In lieu of flowers, send memorials in memory of Mary to either First Lutheran Church Stoughton, the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, the Dane Country Humane Society, or really, any dog rescue in your area. And please donate at your local blood center if you can – they are vitally important.

Family would like to thank the staff of Agrace Hospice care for their support and care of Mary.

Please share your memories of Mary by posting on her Tribute Wall.

Cress Funeral Service

206 W. Prospect Street, PO Box 231, Stoughton

(608) 873-9244