Mary Ann Tyson

Mary Ann (Wallace) Tyson, age 75, of Sun Prairie, passed away peacefully on Sunday, January 12, 2025. Mary was born on September 17, 1949, in Oshkosh, WI, the beloved daughter of John (Jack) and Martha (Messerschmidt) Wallace. As the oldest of five siblings, Mary’s nurturing spirit was evident from a young age, a trait she carried with her throughout her life.

Mary graduated with a bachelor’s degree in education from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh and spent 34 years as a dedicated fourth-grade teacher at C.H. Bird Elementary School in Sun Prairie. She touched the lives of countless children, shaping their minds and hearts with her kindness, patience, and unwavering belief in their potential. In addition to teaching, Mary worked part-time as a real estate agent.

In 1992, Mary was diagnosed with breast cancer, beginning a 33-year journey of strength and resilience. Throughout her battle, Mary’s positivity never wavered. Even on her toughest days, she maintained a cheerful spirit and smile, and was always concerned about others even when she was at her worst. Her grace and tenacity were an inspiration to all who knew her.

Mary had a passion for simple pleasures. She loved to travel, whether on a grand adventure or a simple day trip to explore new places. Her love of cards, dominos, Bloody Marys, boating, and ceramics brought her joy, as did tending to her garden. And while she savored these activities, nothing compared to the joy she found in being a grandmother. She devoted countless hours to making memories with them, whether it was reading books, playing dress-up, or visiting dozens of parks across Dane County. She was the epitome of a loving, caring, and fun grandma, and they will carry her memory in their hearts forever.

Mary was deeply devoted to her family and friends. She leaves behind her loving husband of 52 years, Joseph Tyson; her daughter, Jenny (Dean) Ballweg; her grandchildren, Cora, Ava, and Emmett Ballweg; her sisters, Rose Icken and Barb Wallace (Art Kristufek); her brother, John (Karen) Wallace; brothers-in-law John Tyson, Jim (Rogene) Tyson and Howard Sloan; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and dear friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Kathleen Wallace; sisters-in-law, Joyce Rulseh and Bonnie Tyson; niece, Cailin Icken; long-time friends Don and Helen Stoiber; and several special fur babies.

A visitation will be held from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. on Friday, January 17, 2025, at St. Albert the Great Catholic Church, 2420 St. Albert the Great Drive, Sun Prairie, WI 53590, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 a.m. Mary will be laid to rest alongside her family at Calvary Cemetery in Oshkosh at a later date.

Mary’s warmth, kindness, and unwavering love will be remembered always by those who were fortunate to know her. She was a light in the lives of so many, and her legacy will live on through her family, her friends, and all those who carry her spirit in their hearts.

Cress Funeral Service

1310 Emerald Terrace, Sun Prairie, WI 53590

608-837-9054