Mary Louise Thompson, 80, of Abrams, passed away Friday, Sept. 5, 2025, surrounded by her family.
Their home was always filled with love, warmth and kindness. She was known for her gracious hospitality. Whether it was something fresh from the oven, a game of cards late into the night or a heartfelt conversation, she had a way of making everyone feel special. She often set aside treasures she had found, knowing they would bring joy to someone she loved. Always ready to feed you and make sure you ate, she found joy in caring for others.
Mary was proud of her children and family. She was the one you could count on to be there whenever someone needed her. A night owl who loved playing cards, cooking and sharing laughs with those around her, she lived life with a generous spirit. Mary was hardworking, and her and Ace shared a love for “junking,” searching for treasures to restore and sell. They owned Mary’s Cellar in Abrams and The Corner Resale in Oconto Falls, where they treated every customer like a friend.
Mary was the beloved daughter of Elmer and Rita Ristow, both of whom preceded her in death. She will be lovingly remembered by her special sister, Ina (Joe, preceded in death) Brabant, and was preceded in death by her brother, Glen Ristow (Sharon Klussendorf). She was also dearly loved by her Aunt Diane (Gerard) Pin.
Mary was a truly special person, and love was always in full bloom in her home. Ace was never far from her side, holding her hand through life’s journey.
She is survived by her children, Monica Thompson (Todd Pergande), Lona (Brad) Ryczek, Deana (Andy) Ryczek, Brad (Beth) Thompson and Katie (Paul) Loehlein. She was preceded in death by her son, Todd Thompson, and daughter-in-law, Jane Thompson.
She was a proud, loving grandmother to 14 grandchildren, Jordan (Missy) Thompson, Maggie (Mike) Ostrenga, Kayla (Bryan) Urban, Clinton (Brianna) Ryczek, Trina Ryczek (Avery Forgette), Alex (Jenna) Ryczek, Riley (Joey) Melgar, Brady Ryczek (Julia Slusarek), Aidan Thompson, Leo Thompson, Capri Thompson, Rita Loehlein, Ace Loehlein and Halle Loehlein; a cherished great-grandmother to 15 great-grandchildren; and an aunt to many loved nieces and nephews.
The family will receive relatives and friends at the Gallagher Funeral Home, Oconto, from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, Sept. 13, 2025. Memorial services will be conducted at noon Saturday at the funeral home by Michal Breed (cousin). Online condolences may be expressed at www.gallagherfuneralhome.net.
The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the angels at Unity Hospice and loving caregivers Charline, Lee, Dawn and Pamela for their kindness, compassion and exceptional care.
