Mary M. Messman

Mary M. Messman (Delano), 64, passed away after a brief illness on Friday, March 6, 2026, while surrounded by the love of her family.  Mary was born May 26, 1961, to Roy and Florence “PeeWee” (Huff) Delano in Neenah, WI.  On June 27, 1986, she married the love of her life, her forever partner and best friend, George W. Messman, Jr. 

Mary was a lover of life and nothing meant more to her than her family, especially her grandchildren. Her favorite title was “Oma”. She was the most incredible Oma and shared a special relationship with each of her grandchildren. She enjoyed spring and couldn’t wait to plant flowers and get ready for the beauty of summer. Hosting family and friends for impromptu visits and holidays was another of her favorites. Mary’s smile lit up the sky when the family was together. Christmas was her favorite holiday; the more chaotic, the bigger her smile. She loved to try new crafts and found much joy in perfecting her chocolate candies and caramel making.

Mary was deeply loved by so much family. She was often the very first call when someone needed advice or an ear to listen. She gave you the advice you needed, whether you liked it or not. No matter the situation, you could always count on her being in your corner. She was the center of our world and missed beyond measure.

Mary is survived by her husband, George, their children; Stacy (Nathan) Lewis, Jesse (Ashley) Messman, grandchildren; Taylor (Zoee) Lewis, Logan Lewis, Nathan Messman, Aidan Lewis and Madison Messman, twin great-grandsons; Jackson and Nicholas Lewis, her siblings; Roy Delano Jr., Mike (JoAnn) Delano, Helen (Jim) DeBruin, David Delano, and Larry (Merry) Delano, sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law; Corrine (Tim) Gosz, Cathy (Dave) Uttecht, Fred (Wynne) Messman and Kelly Delano. She is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.  Mary was preceded in death by her parents, brothers; Ricky Delano and George Delano, and in-laws; Christine Messman, Dick Messman and Tootie Delano. 

The funeral service for Mary will be held on Friday, March 13, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. at Valley Funeral Home, 2211 N. Richmond St., Appleton.  A time of visitation will be held on Friday from 11:00 a.m. until the time of the service at the funeral home.  For online condolences please visit www.valleyfh.com. 

The family would like to share a special thank you to the nursing staff at ThedaCare-Appleton for their compassionate care of Mary during her final journey.

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