Mary M Schar

Mary Mortimer Schar died on January 19, 2026 at the age of 97. She was born in Madison on June 5, 1928 to Professors George B. and Iva Rankin Mortimer. She graduated from Madison West High School in 1946 and received two degrees from the University of Wisconsin - Madison - B.S. in Home Economics and Education in 1950 and M.S. in Education in 1958. A lifelong Madison resident, she briefly taught Home Economics at Oak Park High School, Oak Park, IL before returning to Madison to marry Walter F. “Terry” Schar, Jr. on February 21st, 1959. They had two children, Susan and Steven.

She was a member of the Madison Home Economics Club, Omicron Nu Honorary Society, Sigma Kappa Sorority, University League, PEO Sisterhood - Chapter H, Lake Michigan Sampler Guild and First Congregational Church.

Mary was an avid collector of early Americana and enjoyed doing needlework, taking many trips to seminars and classes with her daughter Susan. She loved classical music and attended many concerts at the Overture Center. A dog lover, she was always happy with one of the family’s schnauzers on her lap.

Mary was preceded in death by her father on November 18, 1934, her mother on July 30, 1992 and several aunts and uncles. She is survived by her husband, Walter F. Schar, Jr., her children Susan (Andrew) Balsai, of Long Grove, Illinois and Steven (Kim) Schar, of Sun Prairie and a grandson, William Canter, of Beaver Dam.

Funeral services will be held at the CRESS FUNERAL HOME, 3610 Speedway Road at 12:00 p.m. on Wednesday, February 11 with the Reverend Eldonna Hazen officiating. Burial will be in Forest Hill Cemetery. Friends may call at the CRESS FUNERAL HOME 3610 Speedway Road from 11:00 a.m. to the time of services on February 11. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials to the Dane County Humane Society, the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation or charity of the donor’s choice. The family wishes to thank the staff at Attic Angel Place for their kind and loving care.

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Cress Funeral & Cremation Service

3610 Speedway Road Madison

(608) 238-3434