Mary Wilson

Mary Erbland Wilson, age 94, passed away on Sunday, October 20, 2019. Pre- deceased by husbands, Robert M. Erbland and Robert Wilson; brother, Charles Carroll; brother, John Francis; sister, Margaret Dreas; grand-son, Daniel Tegtmeier; son-in-law, James Carpenter. Survived by eight children; many grand-children; many great grand- children; and many nieces and nephews.

Born in Rochester, NY to John and Deliah Carroll, who had moved to America from Ireland, Mary cherished her Irish heritage. She enthusiastically celebrated it at every opportunity, whether it was St Patrick’s Day, family events with Irish relatives or trips to visit the old country of Ireland. Mary was even known to seek out Irish pubs in New York City, while visiting her children there, where she could be found at wee hours of the morning singing Irish ballads.

After graduating from nursing school, an accomplishment Mary was extremely proud of, she married the love of her life, Robert “Bob” Erbland, a US Naval Academy graduate and US Marine. When Bob fought in Korea, Mary held down the fort with their growing family. Over the years, their frequent moves to different countries were embraced as exciting adventures for the whole family. Mary and Bob were the ultimate international team, relishing the adventures life held for them.

Mary was unconditionally devoted to each one of her eight children. As they grew, Mary never missed out on all the special events of their lives. When her children married, she welcomed their betrothed into her family with grace and warmth. Her bag was always packed and ready for travel to welcome the birth of each new grand-child. Grandma Erbs’s consummate devotion expanded to her 51 grand-children and great grand-children.

Mary was a model of generosity. She gave of herself to family, friends and others with commitment and intentionality. Visitors to her home were welcomed with open arms and her ever present Irish charm. The philanthropies were many. Counted among them were Wounded Warriors, St Bernard Catholic Church and the various ministries involving her grand-children. The Sanctity of Life held a special place in her heart, especially protecting the unborn.

A woman of great strength and high integrity, Mary faced life with fortitude and resolve. A strong unwavering faith in God gave her the endurance to keep going especially when the chips were down. Her faith in her husband Bob Erbland and their marriage gave her the confidence to follow him in the many adventures life unfolded for them. When Mary was widowed at a young age, she looked ahead with determination and unrelenting devotion to her children while holding dear a reverence for the past. The Pinnacle of her family, Mary was a true matriarch who lived life to the fullest and reflected a Christ centered goodness to whom all can aspire.

Mary Erbland Wilson will be greatly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing and loving her.

Memorials in Mary's name to the Wounded Warrior Project or the Wisconsin Right to Life are greatly appreciated.