Mary Liptow

Mary Joan Liptow, beloved wife, mother, grandmama, aunt, and friend, godmother, passed away unexpectedly on March 18, 2025; just two days after her birthday, at the age of 70. She was born on March 16, 1955, in Berlin, Wisconsin, to Wilbur and Evelyn Wick, who, along with her son Ryan, in-laws, Ralph and Arlene Liptow, were there to welcome her into eternal peace. Mary’s life was filled with love, laughter, and a deep connection to her family. She was a devoted wife to Gary, the love of her life, for 52 wonderful years. Together, they shared three sons. Mary and Gary set the stage for unconditional love and countless cherished moments- weekly Wednesday date nights, weekend drives, and a stop at their favorite spot, the casino. Their travels and beach time were always special, and they embraced the simple joy of spending time together, most often holding hands. Mary’s family was her world. She was a calming presence and a great listener. She instilled in her boys the value of time together and unity. She did the same for her grandchildren, taking them back to school shopping, taking them to the Spring Lake Candy Store, treating them to lunch on Wednesday’s, making pancakes every time they stayed the night, and getting them everything under the sun for Christmas. She rarely said “no”. Those moments spent with her family were dear to her heart. Known for her extraordinary baking and cooking skills, she would bake buckets and trays of cookies and treats throughout the year. She made the best taco salad ever, “Mary’s Taco Salad”. Mary had a deep love for holidays and traditions. One of her family’s favorite traditions is the annual Liptow quarry party at Adam’s house in July. Another is Christmas dinner which she served brats, burgers, and hot dogs - and we all looked forward to it. Mary loved to shop and looked forward to the annual shopping trip with the Berlin Beauty girls every November. She was well-known for her love of bloody marys and iced coffee, which Gary faithfully served up on command. Sunday mornings were always special with Gary’s delicious breakfasts, which she looked forward to every week. Mary had a fondness for the color purple, and you’d often find her surrounded by shades of it in her home. Mary is survived by her husband, Gary; sons, Travis (Megan Liptow), and Adam; “grandmama” to, Jack (20), Addie (18), and Gwen (16); and. “Auntie Mary” to all her nieces and nephews; “Grandma Mary to her great-nieces and nephews. She is further survived by her beloved sister, Betty Van Sistine; best friend and niece, Laurie Braun; her “sister from another mister”, Michelle Klawitter and godchildren, Mandy and Cassandra; their beloved dogs and companions, Max and Snickers; other relatives and many friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, Wilbur and Evelyn Wick; son, Ryan; and in-laws, Ralph and Arlene Liptow. Mary was a fixture in Berlin’s community, dedicating over 45 years as a beautician which included 15 years co-owning Berlin Beauty, where she touched countless lives. Her kindness, expertise, and joyful spirit made her beloved by all who walked through her doors. Her legacy in the beauty industry lives in the hearts of those she served. Her presence will be deeply missed; however, we will find comfort in knowing that wherever she is, she’s probably still on her feet, making people smile, perhaps running a salon in heaven—already overbooked and keeping busy. Rest in peace, Mary. You will be dearly missed, but your spirit will live on in all of our hearts and minds. A celebration of Mary’s life will be held at a later date

Mary Liptow

March 16, 1955 - March 18, 2025