Mary Margaret Burd

Mary Margaret (Gabrielson) Burd, of De Pere, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 8, 2026, with her four daughters at her side. She was born on April 25, 1929 (a birthday she often celebrated on the 24th). Mary grew up with five brothers and one sister in Bear Creek, Wisconsin. Though their home lacked modern conveniences such as plumbing, it was rich in love, faith, and family.

After graduating from high school, Mary moved to Green Bay and then to Milwaukee, where she met Rod, the love of her life. They were married on June 2, 1956, and shared 47 years of marriage. After Rod’s death, he was remembered for saying, “47 years with her was not enough,” a sentiment that beautifully reflected the love they shared.

Mary held a variety of jobs—including hospital aide, bookstore clerk, and factory worker—but became a full-time homemaker with the birth of their second daughter. While Mary and her family lived for a time in a suburb of St. Paul, Minnesota during the children’s early years, she spent most of her life in their country home outside of De Pere, a place that held her heart.

Mary was immensely proud of her four daughters. She deeply loved her sons-in-law and treasured her grandchildren, who brought her endless joy. Family was everything to her, and she cherished every moment spent together. She also delighted in time shared with her and Rod’s siblings and their many nieces and nephews.

An exceptional baker, Mary always had a delicious homemade dessert on hand. Family gatherings featured tables and counters filled with every variety of pie. She and Rod maintained large gardens and an orchard, and nothing went to waste—she cooked wonderful meals, canned vegetables, and made jams. Mary loved flowers, whether they were the beautiful blooms Rod grew for her or the simple weeds her daughters proudly picked. She also lovingly supported Rod in caring for the many animals raised on their small farm.

Mary was blessed with many dear friends throughout her life and enjoyed dining out, playing cards, and listening to music. In her earlier years, she loved dancing, tailgating, and snowmobiling.

Mary and Rod shared a love of travel and created countless memories together, including cherished winters spent as snowbirds in Florida, where golf cart rides through their retirement community became part of their everyday joy.

Through it all, Mary lived with deep gratitude—always thankful to God, always thankful for Rod, and always appreciative of even the simplest blessings. She was known for her cheerful, positive spirit and quick wit. Her warmth, kindness, and steady appreciation for life left a lasting impression on everyone who knew her. Her life was long, full, and deeply loved.

She is survived by her four daughters: Debra Burd of Green Bay; Linda (Joe) Drewiske of De Pere; Bonnie (Joe) Calaway of De Pere; and Mary Ann (Frank Carey) Burd of Orlando. She is also survived by four grandsons: Justin Calaway and his partner Rachel Martorelli; Brian Drewiske; Tim Drewiske and his partner Caitlin Sweeney; and Tom (Hillary) Drewiske. Further surviving are her brother, Rick (Barb) Gabrielson; her brother-in-law, Elmer Ellie; her brother- and sister-in-law, Rev. Jim (Elaine) Burd; and her sister-in-law, Ann Elwell, along with many beloved nieces, nephews, and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Kathryn (Rohan) Gabrielson; her husband, Rodney; and her beloved grandson, Joshua Calaway. She was also preceded in death by her brothers, Dan Gabrielson, John (Jan) Gabrielson, Orville Gabrielson, and Russell Gabrielson; her sister, Irene Ellie; her sister-in-law, Evelyn Moore; and her brother-in-law, John Elwell.

Family and friends may visit at St. Mary Catholic Church, 4805 Sportsman Drive, Ledgeview, on Wednesday, January 14, from 9:00am until 10:45am. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00am with Fr. Jason Blahnik officiating. Private burial will be held at Mt. Olivet Cemetery, De Pere. Cotter Funeral and Cremation Care is assisting the family.

Mary’s family extends their most sincere gratitude to the compassionate staff at Allouez Senior Living and to Unity Hospice.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Green Bay Botanical Gardens.