Mary Baal

Mary L. Baal age 77 of Platteville, WI passed away Monday, February 3, 2025, surrounded by her family. She was born on October 3, 1947, in Dubuque, IA, the daughter of Keith and Dorothy (Cottrell) Cole. Mary grew up in Epworth, IA and attended Western Dubuque High School, the class of 1965. On December 9, 1967, Mary was united in marriage to Ralph Baal in Dubuque. They began Dairy farming and raising their family together in Sherrill, IA. In 1979 Mary and Ralph moved their family to rural Platteville where they continued to farm and raise their family.  In the early 2000's they sold their cows and retired from farming. They saved 25 acres of land and built their retirement home and enjoyed the golden years until Ralph's passing.  She later met her friend and companion, Renny, with whom she spent her remaining years with.

She was known for her thrifty nature. During retirement, Mary began working at the Platteville Thrift Shop where she made many meaningful relationships and found countless hidden gems for her family and friends. She was always on the lookout for the next great deal. Her sharp wit and attention to detail made her an excellent bookkeeper and home maker. In her free time, Mary enjoyed bowling with friends, family fishing trips to Northern Minnesota, and boating trips on the Mississippi when her children were growing up and playing horseshoes on a warm summer night. In her later years she found companionship with Renny, and they would often find themselves enjoying the simple things in life such as fishing at their favorite pond or sharing stories of their struggles and successes as farmers. She cherished her time with her grandchildren and the memories that they had created together. Her sassy and fun-loving demeanor will be fondly remembered by all who knew her.

She is survived by her significant other: Reynold “Renny” Anderson of Mount Horeb, WI; three daughters: Laura Gundlach of Shullsburg, WI, Vicki (Mike) Chase and Dana (John) Niehaus both of Platteville; 7 Grandchildren: Daniel (Jessica) Baal, Kristina Kurtz, Anna (Fiancé, Tommy Schmideler) Chase, Connor Chase, Mitchell (Abby) Niehaus, Jacob Niehaus and Riley Niehaus; one sister: Joy (Alan) Droessler of Cuba City, WI and her beloved dog Bella. Mary is preceded in death by her Parents; husband: Ralph Baal in 2007, one grandson: Tyler Baal in 2019; her brother and sister-in-law: Donald (Karen) Cole and two nephews: Cory Cole and Chris Cole.

A funeral service will be held at 12:00 PM on Friday, February 7, 2025, at Melby Funeral Home (1245 N. Water St.  Platteville, WI, 53818) with Rev. Mary Ann Floerke presiding. A visitation will be held prior to the funeral from 10:00 AM until the time of service at the Melby Funeral Home. The burial will be held at Hillside Cemetery in Platteville. Melby Funeral Home in Platteville is serving the family. Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.melbyfh.com