Mary L. Praefke

Mary L. Praefke

Mary L. Praefke, of Cedarburg, surrounded by her loving family, was Born to Eternal Life, on Wednesday, May 8, 2024, at the age of 84 years.

Mary was born on March 8, 1940, in Milwaukee, the daughter of the late Nicholas Arnold and the late Susan (nee Toman) Arnold. She later graduated from Brookfield Central High School and went on to earn her associate degree.

Mary was united in marriage to James Willer and their marriage was blessed with four children. They bought their first home together in Brown Deer and raised their family there. It was then that Mary and James founded Willer Tool Corporation, in 1970, in Butler, Wisconsin. The company continues growth and success, which is now run by their sons, and they are proud to continue to be family owned and operated, in Jackson, Wisconsin.

Mary was united in marriage to Gordon Praefke, in 1979, and they had one son, Jason Praefke. They embraced a blended family and loved spending time together on their family farm, Equus Paradise, which was located in West Bend, Wisconsin. Together they transformed an old dairy farm, barn, and house into a wondrous place for family, friends, and animals to enjoy. Gordon passed away back in November of 2011.

Mary was an avid golfer and was a member of the West Bend Country Club, where she made many treasured friendships throughout the years. Although she spent many hours on the golf course, her true love was spending time with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. The many lasting memories which were made with her family throughout the years brought peace and comfort to her during her last few days in hospice care.

Mary relocated to the Hamilton House, in Cedarburg, for the past two years, where she made many new friendships. The family would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to the residents and caring staff at the Hamilton House for all of the love and support which they showed to Mary and her family.

Mary is survived by her children: Kathryn (James) Spaude, Kurt (Connie) Willer, Mary Beth (Rick) Waters, and James (Karen) Willer; step-children, Barbara Praefke and Carson Praefke, daughter-in-law, Susanne Praefke, and grandchildren: Nicholas (Julie) Taraboi, Michael (Sarah) Taraboi, Joseph (Michelle) Taraboi, James (Paula) Taraboi, Nicole Spaude, Sam Spaude, Rebecca Willer, Kyle (Taylor) Willer, Ethan Willer, Thomas (fiancée Elysa Schreiner) Willer, Charles Willer, Matthew Willer, Wyatt Praefke, and Elizabeth Praefke. She is further survived by 13 great-grandchildren, many other relatives and friends.

Mary was preceded in death by her husband, Gordon Praefke, her son, Jason Praefke, son-in-law, Michael Taraboi, and siblings, Nick Arnold, Nancy Clark, and Susan Praefke.

A memorial gathering will be held on Tuesday, May 21, 2024, from 4:00 PM until 5:00 PM at the Mueller Funeral Home & Crematory (979 N. Green Bay Rd.), Grafton. A Memorial Service will take place at 5:00 PM with Father Steve Lampe presiding. The family will then invite friends and family to join them at Galioto’s to continue celebrating the Life of Mary Praefke. In lieu of flowers, memorials of your choice are appreciated.