Dec 06, 2013
New Richmond, Wisconsin
Mary Ann Higgins, age 81 died peacefully on December 6th, 2013. Mary was born on September 20th, 1932 in Hayward Wisconsin to Rodney and Antonia (Knoepker) Jarvis. Mary graduated from high school in 1950. She then attended college in Ashland Wisconsin graduating in1952 with a teaching degree. She taught in many small country schools in Wisconsin. In 1966 she married Fritz Higgins and had 2 children, Michael and Erin. In 1973 she began teaching at St. Mary’s school in New Richmond and was there for 16 years. After leaving St. Mary’s she became a nanny for Susan Englighter who was the head of the small business administration under George Bush Sr. Later in life she opened a daycare in her home where she cared for many children that she loved very much. After retiring, she filled her days with volunteer work, gardening and enjoying her grandchildren and her beloved dog scooter. Mary was known for her ease and frequent conversations with complete strangers and her “quick wit” sense of humor. Throughout her life she maintained a sweet & simple demeanor that won the hearts of many. Mary was a woman of great faith and loved teaching Christian Formation with her son Mike. She loved to write poems and was especially proud of her yard and her beautiful view of the Apple River. Mary is preceded in death by her parents Rodney & Antonia Jarvis; husband, Fritz Higgins and 8 brothers and sisters. She is survived by her children, Michael (Terri) Higgins & Erin (Rich) Fern; grandchildren, Alexandria Fern, Jason Fern, Ryder Fern, Kelly Fern, Sean (Libby) Higgins, Alisha (Joe Hailey) Higgins, Blake Higgins, Patrick (Robyn) Higgins, Amanda (Mike) Stoll; great grandchildren, Jordan, Jenessa, Amelia and Frank. Mass of Christian Burial 2 PM Wednesday December 11, 2013 at the IMMACULATE CONCEPTION CATHOLIC CHURCH in New Richmond, Wisconsin. Visitation one hour prior to the service at the church.