Racine- Maria T. von Schrader, age 97, passed away peacefully while surrounded by her family at Ascension Wheaton Franciscan Healthcare in Franklin, WI. on February 12, 2024.

Maria was born in Augsburg, Germany on August 23,1926 to Karl August Julius and Maria (nee:) Ruckser) Butz.  She was a survivor of World War II and emigrated to the United States following the war, joined in marriage with American GI Wilfred Meyer.  They had two sons shortly after, Herb and Dennis.

Maria was later united in a second marriage to Francis U. von Schrader. Maria was preceded in death by her parents Karl and Maria, brothers Hans and Ambrose, husbands Wilfred and Francis, and her son Dennis.

She is survived by her son Herb (Paula) Meyer, grandsons Matthew (Kary) Meyer and Bradley (Elizabeth) Meyer. She is also survived by nieces, nephews, and friends.

Maria often spoke of her desire to "make it to 100 years old."  Despite a willing spirit, she fell just short of that milestone. She did however, accomplish so much in her robust, fiercely independent life. A proud woman, she loved her family unconditionally and will be dearly missed by many.

Maria leaves a legacy known for being a humble, kind, and caring mother, grandmother, wife, aunt, and friend. She worked tirelessly as an advocate for those living with mental illness, promoting equal treatment, greater opportunities, and staunchly defending their needs and rights. She joined other members of the National Alliance on Mentally Ill (NAMI) founding generation providing inspirational leadership and was the catalyst for the Belle City Learning Center in the 1980's.  She was also instrumental in the creation of the Kismit Klub, which she continued to support through the von Schrader Foundation.  She was also a steadfast supporter of the National Alliance on Mentally Ill Racine County and the Racine Friendship Clubhouse until her passing.

Maria loved to travel and was fond of cruises. She had the good fortune of traveling on many different ships and visit destinations around the world. Just a few years ago, she was joined by her immediate family on a voyage to Alaska for what would be her final cruise, memories which she continued to share with others as being the best and most memorable of all her travels.

A memorial service will be held at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 1533 Erie St, Racine, WI. at 11:00am, Friday August 23, 2024. Visitation with family will be at the church from 10:00am until the time of service. Private interment will be held at Holy Cross Cemetery Hwy. 32.

In lieu of flowers, please consider memorials to the National Alliance on Mental Illness of Racine County or the Racine Friendship Clubhouse.