Mary A. Yessa

Mary A. Yessa, 72, of the Town of Johnson, passed away peacefully at home on Saturday, May 31, 2025, surrounded by her loving family and under the compassionate care of Interim Hospice. She quietly faced cancer with grace and strength following a diagnosis in 2023.

Mary was born on October 24, 1952, in Medford, Wisconsin, to the late Benedict and Myrtle (Kornack) Metz. On May 6, 1972, she married William Yessa, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Stetsonville—a union rooted in faith and devotion that lasted over five decades.

Mary’s life was a beautiful reflection of her unwavering faith and boundless love for her family. Her Catholic faith was the cornerstone of her life, guiding her every step and nurturing those around her. A longtime member of St. Mary Catholic Church in Marathon, she poured her heart into her church community—teaching religion classes, leading countless confirmation and women's retreats, and providing comfort and guidance to her expansive community. She also found joy and peace in the simple pleasures of life, pausing to capture and share photographs of nature's beauty.  Mary embraced the outdoors and could often be found riding her bike up to 60 miles a day, finding both strength and serenity on the open road.

Mary leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and faith. She is survived by her husband, William, and their children: Connie Reidy of Florida, Carrie (Dean) Redmann of Athens, Cathy (Kevin) Kraft of Marathon, Christy (Gavin) Engelbright of Wisconsin Rapids, Craig (Sara) Yessa of Stratford, and Caylie Yessa of Kansas City. She was a proud and loving grandmother to 11 grandchildren—Will Reidy, Amalia (Dylan) Willemssen, Marissa Redmann, Patrick Redmann, Mason Kraft, Blake Kraft, Taylar Engelbright, Preston Engelbright, Kaden Engelbright, Shelby Yessa, and Barrett Yessa—and two precious great-grandchildren, Jo-Ann and Isabelle Willemssen. Siblings: Karen (Jerry) Roberts, Carol (Dan) Pozanc, Ray (Marilyn) Metz, Barbara (Dan) Williams, and Kurt (Deb) Metz.

Mary’s warmth, strength, and quiet wisdom touched everyone who knew her. She will be deeply missed but forever held in the hearts of all who were blessed to be loved by her.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Benedict and Myrtle Metz; and two brothers, John Metz and Norman Metz.

The funeral Mass will be celebrated at 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 7, 2025 at St. Mary Catholic Church, Marathon, with Rev. Msgr. Joseph Diermeier presiding.  Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at the church.  Burial will follow in the parish cemetery.  Online condolences may be expressed at www.petersonkraemer.com.

In lieu of flowers, donations are requested for Mass intentions in Mary's honor.