Mary Jane Lewis
November 28, 1943 -
January 26, 2021
Mary Jane (Peterson) Lewis, age 77, passed away at her residence on Tuesday, January 26, 2021.
Born in Beloit, WI on November 28, 1943, she was the daughter of Lester and Anna (Nielsen) Peterson. She was a graduate of North Boone High School and received her bachelor’s degree in Education from Carthage College.
On June 14, 1969, Mary Jane was united in marriage to Donald C. Lewis, Jr. at Jefferson Lutheran Church and they shared 38 loving years together. Donald preceded her in death on November 24, 2007.
Mary Jane was employed as a teacher for the Kenosha Unified School District for 35 years, retiring in 1999.
Mary Jane was a member of the KEA, WEA, NEA and the KCREA. She also was a member of the PTO Board and Fund and the Kenosha Literacy Council. She enjoyed the outdoors, gardening, reading, traveling and volunteered as a sub-driver for Meals on Wheels.
Left to smile about the great times they had are those who survive her: her siblings, Carol Krupke and John (Haidy) Peterson; her stepchildren, Deborah Lewis and Linda (Peter) DeRose; her eight grandchildren.
In addition to her parents and husband, Mary Jane was preceded in death by her stepchildren, Sandra Constabile and Dawn Lewis.
Service Info
Funeral services honoring Mary Jane’s life will be held on Thursday, February 11, 2021 at 10:00 a.m. at Southern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial remembrances to Kindred Kitties, 614 59th Street, Kenosha, WI 53140 or to Carthage College Center for Children’s Literature, 2001 Alford Park Drive, Kenosha, WI 53140 would be appreciated.
Due to public health concerns, and in compliance with CDC guidelines, only 50 people will be permitted to enter the funeral home at one time. For the safety of our guests, you may be asked to wait outside. Social distancing will be maintained and those in attendance are required to wear a face covering. We thank you for your understanding and cooperation during this difficult time.
Posted by:
Sandra AmbrosiniI was so shocked to hear of Mary Jane's passing. My parents Romano & Lida Lenci have lived across the street from Mary Jane for over 30 years. Mary was a wonderful and caring lady. She was always helping my parents if they needed anything, She would collect their mail when they were in Florida and I would go pick up the mail at her house, I really enjoyed talking with her she always had great stories to tell. I know she had many dinners at my parents house over the years. When my mom got sick in early 2020 she brought food over to my parents or she would call them to see how they were. When my mom passed in November she really wanted to go to the funeral home but with Covid and not wanting to drive in the dark she called the funeral home and made arrangements to go early to pay her respects. My father was shocked when I told him about Mary, he is very sad and remembers her fondly. I saw that in lieu of flowers a donation can be made, I will speak to my father and we will be sending something in honor of Mary Jane. My heart goes out to all the family and prayers are being said for all of you during this very sad time. Sandy Ambrosini and Romano Lenci
Posted by:
Rosemary PalmerMary Jane was simply the perfect childhood (and lifelong) friend for me. She was fun, exciting, accepting and idealistic. Our interests and values were a complete match. What a miracle that God placed this valued person in my life, a miracle that lasted from our one-room school days to a week ago. May He richly bless Mary Jane throughout eternity. Rest in peace, MJ.
Posted by:
Beau and Diane BosovichMary Jane was an outstanding educator who was always student centered in her teaching. I (Beau) taught with her for many years at Bain Elementary School. She was a student advocate with high, but reasonable expectations of all her students along with being like a second mother to them. She truly cared about her students. She was an excellent role model for me, and I appreciated her words of wisdom over the years. Mary Jane's family are in our thoughts and prayers.
Posted by:
Patricia TorrisiMy sincere condolence to you, Carol and John and family. May you cherish all of the wonderful memories you have with Mary Jane. Prayers to all.
Posted by:
Angie JulianaRest in peace Mrs. Lewis, you were one of my favorite teachers. You will always be remembered for the positive impact you had on so many children's lives and for sharing your gift of education with us. You leave behind a powerful legacy that few can match.
Posted by:
marilyn JulianaRIP Mrs. Lewis. My sincere condolences to the family. She was a wonderful person and teacher. My children loved her and still kept in touch with her! They are devasted....my one daughter just spoke with her a few days ago . She will be sadly missed
Posted by:
Carol KrupkeThank you for all the wonderful memories you left me, from our early years growing up to your last days, you were a very special part of my life. From the outpouring of support and love I have received, it is obvious you touched so many lives. Your mission on Earth ended; now you have a new mission flying with the angels. Make sure you visit all your family and friends and inspire them to live a good life. Lots of love and hugs are being sent to you. Love, Carol
