Mary Margarette Welker

Madison (formerly of Racine) – Mary Margarette Welker, 87, passed away peacefully in her sleep at Oak Park Place in Madison on Saturday, January 24, 2009. Mary was born in Racine on July 10, 1921 to the late James and Laura (nee: Todd) Welker. A graduate of Washington Park High School, she went on to attend college for a few years. Subsequently, Mary became a proficient secretary at Massey-Ferguson, a position she held until her retirement in 1982. Mary was a longtime member of Taylor Avenue Church of the Nazarene. With a profound love of ceramic art, she owned and operated Mary’s Clay Castle where she taught ceramics to many artists (of all skill levels) in our community. Later in life, Mary developed an interest in genealogy. As part of this, she produced a detailed history of her family, dating back a few hundred years. Above all, she was extremely proud of all her nieces and nephews, many of whom she helped raise for a period of time. Surviving are her 17 special nieces and nephews, especially her longtime caretaker, Joyce (Kurt) Kaspar of Cottage Grove; and by her devoted friends, Greg Allen, Linda Anderson; Mary and Sam Charbogian & family; Mr. And Mrs. Charles Hardy, Bonnie Klemick, Gena Lichty, Stella Wyma and Gladys Beier. In addition to her parents, Mary was preceded in death by her brothers, Harold, Earl, Floyd and Albert Welker; and her faithful canine companions, Topsy and Moffette. Funeral services will be held at Taylor Avenue Church of the Nazarene, 2100 Taylor Avenue, on Wednesday, January 28, 2009 at 11 am with Rev. David F. Monroe officiating. Interment will follow in West Lawn Memorial Park. Visitation will be in the church on Wednesday from 9-11 am. In memory of Mary, memorials to Taylor Avenue Church of the Nazarene has been suggested.