Mary Jo A. Rozumalski passed away April 6, 2025. Mary Jo was born in Milwaukee on Oct. 4, 1944, daughter of the late Ralph Rozumalski and Mildred (nee Hildebrandt) Rozumalski. Mary Jo held a Bachelors and Masters degree in education and taught physical education for 30 years in Dolton, Ill.
Mary Jo loved to spend her weekends and summers at Woodhaven Lakes campground in Illinois, where many special memories were made. She had a lifelong passion for nature and the outdoors, enjoying camping, hiking and bird watching with family and friends. One of her nephews dubbed her “Queen of the Forest.” Upon retiring, she moved to a beautiful wooded area near Eureka Springs, Ark., where she enjoyed many years with wonderful friends.
Mary Jo generously donated time and money to causes supporting social justice, equality and educational opportunity for all people, regardless of race, religion or gender. She also gave generously to groups feeding the poor, supporting wildlife and nature preservation, libraries and higher education. In Eureka Springs, she enjoyed singing in the Ozarks Chorale and volunteering in the food pantry.
Mary Jo was dearly loved and will be missed by her sisters Jane (Brad) Bratz, and Joan (Tim) Becker, nephews Steve Bratz, Matt (Ellen) Bratz, Nick (Cassandra) Becker and niece Angela (Ryan) Pruess, other relatives and good friends. A special thanks to Mary Diehl, her dear friend and companion, who helped Mary Jo feel loved and safe as she began her battle with dementia.
Memorials suggested by the family include your local food pantry, Habitat for Humanity, or the National Audubon Society.