Racine– Mary Ann (nee: McClure) Chase, 78, passed away unexpectedly at Wheaton Franciscan – All Saints Medical Center on Thursday, July 19, 2012.

Mary was born in Ocean City, N.J. on April 16, 1934, the daughter of the late Vaughn McClure. She had resided in Somers Point, N.J. until she met her future husband, Russell Chase, Sr., while he was serving our Country with the United States Navy. After their marriage on June 1, 1954, the couple lived in Kenosha before moving to Racine. Russell preceded her in death on September 4, 2007.

As a young child, Mary had to help raise her two younger brothers, Bobbie and Charlie, of whom she loved dearly. Mary enjoyed entertaining and playing Scrabble with her very dear friends, Joyce and Judy; and their mother – of whom Mary lovingly referred to as "Granny". She could often be found solving crossword puzzles and reading. Above all, Mary loved and cherished being in the surroundings of her entire family.

Mary will be dearly missed by her children, Hope, Russell Jr., Donald, Brenda, Kerry and Carol Chase; two special grandsons (who were the loves of her life), Ricky and Robert; brother-in-law, Donald (Carol) Chase; sister-in-law, Joanne McClure; step-sisters, Jessica and Agnes; her faithful feline companion, Whiskers; and by many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

In addition to her father and husband, Mary was preceded in death by her step-mother, Anna McClure; beloved brothers, Bobbie and Charlie McClure; brother-in-law, Robert Chase; mother-in-law, Clara Chase; step-brothers, Joseph and Edward; and step-sister, Ann.

Funeral services will be held in the Draeger-Langendorf Funeral Home on Wednesday, July 25, 2012 at 11:00 am with Rev. Holly Anderle officiating. Interment will follow at Sunset Ridge Memorial Park in Kenosha. Visitation will be in the funeral home on Tuesday from 5-7 pm and on Wednesday from 10-11 am.