Mary Ann Luce

Mary Ann Luce (née Schulz), age 87, passed away peacefully on July 24, 2026.

Mary Ann was born on April 28, 1939, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to Anna and Albert Schulz, German immigrants who instilled in their family the values of hard work, kindness, and love. She and her siblings often reminisced about the wonderful childhood they shared together.

Mary Ann married the love of her life, Len Luce, and together they built a life centered on family. They made their first home in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, before moving several times as Len pursued new career opportunities. They eventually settled in Palatine, Illinois, where they raised their family. While living in Palatine, they purchased a beloved summer cottage in Edgerton, Wisconsin, which became the gathering place for countless family weekends filled with pontoon boat rides, barbecues, and cherished memories. After retiring, Mary Ann and Len moved to Florida, where they enjoyed welcoming visits from their children and grandchildren. They also continued spending their summers at the cottage they loved so much. During the last 13 years of her life, Mary Ann lived in Gurnee, Illinois, with her daughter Kathryn and her family, where she was surrounded by the love and support of those closest to her.

Mary Ann was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Len Luce; her daughter, Julie Arnold; her son-in-law, Michael Rowbottom, husband of her daughter, MaryJo; and her grandsons, Bryan Luce and Karl Gesicki.

She is lovingly remembered by her daughters, MaryJo Rowbottom, Marcia Gesicki, Kathryn (Michael) McDermott, and Rachel (Jerry) Fuerstenberg; her son-in-law, Steve Arnold; her grandchildren, Helen, Matt, Megan, Katelyn, Olivia, and Mesay; her great-grandchildren, Ezra, Nehemiah, and Adalaiah; and her siblings, Trudy Brell, Betty Nescki, and Billy Schulz, and their families.

Mary Ann worked for Motorola for 17 years, soldering circuit boards. She was fortunate to retire at the age of 55, giving her and Len many wonderful years to enjoy retirement together.

In retirement, Mary Ann and Len enjoyed giving back through their church by volunteering with Meals on Wheels. Mary Ann also lovingly made handmade teddy bears for cancer patients, sharing her talent and compassion to bring comfort to others.

A gifted homemaker with an incredible creative spirit, Mary Ann had a special talent for decorating her home, especially in an Oriental style that reflected her eye for beauty. She was a master seamstress who lovingly sewed clothes for her daughters when they were young, along with clothes for their Barbie dolls, and beautiful dresses for her granddaughters. She was also known for creating exquisite handmade dolls. Her very first doll, affectionately named Rhonda, held a special place in her heart and had an extensive wardrobe, including a beautifully handmade outfit for every holiday—a true reflection of Mary Ann's remarkable craftsmanship and creativity.

Above all, Mary Ann's greatest joy was her family. Whether at the cottage in Edgerton, welcoming loved ones to Florida, or gathered around the dinner table, she treasured every moment spent with those she loved.

Mary Ann was a thoughtful and caring person who never forgot a birthday or anniversary. She loved expressing her affection through handmade gifts, including the scrubbies she enjoyed making for family and friends. She was also a fabulous cook who rarely measured ingredients or followed a recipe—her meals always came together with "a pinch of this and a dash of that."

Her grandchildren, who lovingly knew her as Grammie, will forever treasure the way she signed every card and note, "X-O-X-O and 1-2-3-4-5-6," a special tradition that became a symbol of the hugs, kisses, and unconditional love she shared with each of them.

In accordance with her wishes, no funeral services will be held. A celebration of Mary Ann's life will be announced at a later date.

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Mary Ann's daughter, Kathryn McDermott, and her husband, Michael, for welcoming her into their home for the past 13 years of her life and surrounding her with love and support.

We are especially grateful to Kathryn for the care, time, and dedication she gave to Mary Ann during the eight months she was in the nursing home. Her presence and support meant more than words can express.

The family also extends its sincere appreciation to the staff and caregivers at St. Croix Hospice and the nursing home who cared for Mary Ann during her final months.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Mary Ann's memory may be made to St. Croix Hospice.