Mary Jane Frei

Mary Jane Frei, age 90, of Eau Claire, WI, formerly of Neillsville, WI died Tuesday, May 24, 2022, at Sacred Heart Hospital in Eau Claire, WI.

Mary Jane was born February 24, 1932, at Loyal, Wisconsin, in Clark County. She was the daughter of George and Angeline (Schuld) Frei. At a young age, she moved with her parents to a farm in Pine Valley Township, south of Neillsville, Wisconsin. She attended Hiawatha grade school, grades one through six and then she attended St. Mary's Catholic school, grades seven and eight. In 1948, she moved with her parents to Neillsville and attended Neillsville High School and graduated in 1950.

In July of 1949, she was stricken with polio which left her mostly confined to a wheelchair and used leg braces and crutches. In 1951, she moved to Eau Claire, Wisconsin to attend vocational school (now known as Chippewa Valley Technical College). In 1952, she started employment at the Eau Claire Leader Telegram and retired from there after 39 years in 1991.

The highlight of her life, was when she bought her first car, equipped with hand controls in 1958.

Mary Jane enjoyed her home and had many friends. She loved corresponding with letters to her many friends and relatives. She also had a nice doll collection.

She is survived by her sister, Beverly (James) Raine, many nieces, nephews, and many great and great-great nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, two sisters, Roseline (Norbert) Noeldner, Lucille (George) Pagenkopf, two brothers, Edward (Joyce) Frei, and Leo (Marge) Frei and three nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, May 31, 2022, at St. Mary Catholic Church in Neillsville.  The Celebrant will be Father Gregory Michaud.  Music will be provided by Rebekah Lehn, organist, and St. Mary’s Choir. Burial will follow at St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery. Visitation will be from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m., on Tuesday, May 31 at the catholic church. 

Online Condolences may be made at www.geschefh.com.

Gesche Funeral Home and Cremation Service is assisting Mary Jane’s family with funeral arrangements.