Mary Jane Allgaier, 88, of Traverse City passed away June 30, 2022.

Mary was born on May 13, 1934 in Traverse City to the late Francis and Anna Allgaier.

She attended Immaculate Conception Grade, School and St. Francis High School and graduated in 1952 with honors.  She continued her education at Northwestern Michigan College and again graduated with honors in 1952.  She worked for Northwestern Michigan College for 19 years.  A career change led her to operating Tilley's Party Store from 1973-1983.  Her final career change brought her to Texas working for the IRS as a tax examiner.   She retired and moved back to Traverse City in 1996.

Mary lived her life by her own terms in a time when that was very unusual for a woman to do so.  She was an adventurer and a lifelong learner who embraced other cultures.  She had moxie with an independent spirit, while also being deeply sentimental.  She loved fiercely long after loved ones had passed and kept mementos of them as some of her prized possessions.

Mary loved the Peanuts cartoons, Garfield comics but her lifelong love was her faith.  This was evident in the way she lived her life.  She had many hand written prayers, reverence and appreciation for the tokens of her strong Catholic faith.

Mary bonded over her strong faith with her confidant and friend that became family, Margarita Klingforth.  Margarita was someone who cared for and fiercely advocated for Mary; much as a child would care for a beloved parent while expecting nothing in return.  Mary had no biological children, but God brought them together in faith and spirit and bonded them in a way that is indistinguishable between blood and friendship.   May we all have a Margarita in our lives.

Mass will held for Mary at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church at 11am on October 11, 2022.  Her burial will take place privately at Oakwood Catholic Cemetery.  Memorial contributions may be directed to the Church.  Kindly share thoughts and memories with her family at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com