Mary Ann Burghard

Mary Ann Burghard died of pancreatic cancer on Nov. 19 at the age of 91.

She was born to Henry L. and Ruth Schafer on May 2, 1922, in Ritzville. Mary Ann was raised on the Packard farm and attended Ritzville schools graduating with top honors in 1940. The love of her life, Herb, started riding her school bus when she was in the ninth grade. Herb and Mary Ann were married on Aug. 23, 1941, enjoying 72 years together. Herb and Mary Ann were proud to raise three children in Odessa: Jerry (Judy) Burghard, Terry (Marty) Burghard and Jan Weeks.

Mary Ann became a great cook by preparing food for the harvest crews. She loved entertaining, bowling, camping, fishing, sewing, playing cards, doing crossword puzzles, traveling and listening to music.

Mary Ann and Herb tried to take long walks daily. She was a volunteer for 4-H, Scouts, PTO, Care Bears, and Deutsches Fest.

After their children were old enough, she worked part time as a bookkeeper for the Trading Company then worked 15 years at Schmidt Insurance.

She was preceded in death by her husband in June 2013, her parents, and two sisters: Laura Schoessler and Alice Schafer. Her three children, three grandchildren and three great-grandchildren survive her.

A celebration of life for both Mary Ann and Herb will be held at the Heritage Church in Odessa on Monday, Dec. 2, at 11 a.m. with a salad bar afterwards.

The family would love to hear stories about their parents and cards would be greatly appreciated: Box 271, Odessa, WA. 99150.

Danekas Funeral Home in Ritzville is in charge of arrangements.