(Nee Peterson), age 73, passed away peacefully on Monday, Sept. 01, 2014 in Wauwatosa surrounded by her loving family after a long struggle with Alzheimer's disease.

She was born April 24, 1941 in Racine, WI., the daughter of Andrew and Jane Peterson (Andersen). She graduated from Racine Horlick High in 1959 and then Luther College in Decorah, IA where she earned a B.A. in 1963. She was united in marriage to William A."Bill" Manke on August 17, 1963 until his passing on August 12, 2008. She lived with her family in Madison for 45 years and spent her career as a dedicated teacher in the Madison public schools where she taught grade school children at Franklin, Shorewood and Thoreau elementary schools.

Mary Jo lived her life with faith, love, kindness and compassion and set a lasting example as a devoted mother, wife, daughter, sister, friend and teacher. Her generous spirit and loving influence will be greatly missed.

She is survived by her sons, Rev. Christopher (Donna) Manke of Wauwatosa, Matthew (Christine) Manke of Brookline, MA; her sister Margaret "Peggy" (Jack) Christiansen of Racine; her niece, Sara Richards; and her grandchildren Averie, Noah and Lilly Manke. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, William A. Manke; and her nephew, Peter Christiansen.

A memorial service will be held at 3:00pm on Friday, Sept. 05 at St. Matthew's Ev. Lutheran Church, 1615 Wauwatosa Avenue, in Wauwatosa. Visitation will be from 1:00-3:00pm, with further fellowship after the 3:00pm service. A private internment will take place at a later date. Memorials are welcome in lieu of flowers and are encouraged for the Alzheimers Association of America.