Mary Jane Srnka

Srnka, Mary Jane
Appleton

Mary Jane Srnka, age 80, passed away on Friday, February 22, 2008, at Appleton Medical Center in Appleton. Mary Jane was born on May 5, 1927 to the late Benjamin and Olga (Bruecker) Brochtrup in Hollandtown. She married the late Wilbur Srnka on June 9, 1951 in Hollandtown. In 1956, Mary Jane and Wilbur started Wilmar Candies. They owned and operated the business until they retired in 1984. They were also part of the founding members of St. Pius X Catholic Church. Mom had many interests. She loved bird watching, cross-stitching, walking, traveling, card playing, bible study and visiting with friends to name a few. But the one she is known far and wide for was singing. She knew all the old hymns and golden oldies and would sing them with family, friends, caretakers and acquaintances and on occasion was known to burst into song when no one was in the room just for the pure joy of singing. She was a member of the Hallelujah Chorus at the Thompson Center. She was very talented with instruments. Mom played the violin, guitar, harmonica and the piano. She was also known for her wonderful dancing. Mom loved to dance with her husband, Wilbur, which is how they met. Mom was an avid Packers fan and liked playing softball with children and grandchildren. She had the unique ability to make each child and grandchild feel special and loved.

Mary Jane is lovingly survived by her children: James Srnka of Hilbert, Terrence (Bonnie) Srnka of Appleton, Richard Srnka and his fiancé, Robbi Ulrich, of Appleton, Todd Srnka and his special friend, Gerlinda, of Appleton, Thomas Srnka of Appleton, Juliann (Troy) Hansen of Portland, Oregon; grandchildren: Sue, Jennifer, Benjamin, Molly, Michael, Adam, Brent, Curt, Ryan, Joseph, Kyle, Sadie, Zachariah, Serena; great-grandchildren: Jacob, Brenden, Xander, Isabel; brother: Fred (Mary) Brochtrup of Kaukauna; sisters: Patricia Backes of Appleton, Diane (Victor) Haen of Victoria, MN; sister-in-law, Doris, and many nieces and nephews.

Mary Jane is preceded in death by her daughter, Jeannine M. Srnka, brother, Don Brochrup and brother-in-law, Matthew Backes.

A funeral liturgy for Mary Jane will be held on Tuesday, February 26, 2008 at 11:30 a.m. at ST. PIUS X CATHOLIC CHURCH, 500 W. Marquette Street, Appleton with Fr. Quinn Mann officiating. Friends may call at the Wichmann Funeral Home on Monday, February 25, 2008, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and again at the church from 9:30 a.m. until the time of service.

The family of Mary Jane would like to extend a sincere thank you to all the staff at Manor Care and Appleton Medical Center for all their care and support of our mom.

In lieu of flowers a memorial fund is being established.

WICHMANN FUNERAL HOME
537 N. Superior Street
Appleton (920) 739-1231