Mary's Story

Mary Christianson Pigott, loving wife, mother, and grandmother, entered eternal life on November 12, 2020, at 71. Free of her heroic battle with cancer, her spirit left peacefully at her home in Burlington, WI, surrounded by her loved ones. She leaves behind her life long friend and husband Peter, and her four adoring children Brian (Sandy), Lindsey (Chris), Jennifer (Juan), Andrew (Brittany), and her nine beautiful grandchildren Sydney, Emily, Paige, Addy, Dakota, Jack, Frankie, Hannah, and Ella. She is survived by her brothers Brian (Tina) and Peter (Susan) Christianson.

Mary was born in Superior, WI, in 1949 to Dr. Herbert Christianson and Alice Christianson. She spent many of her formative years moving where Dr. Christianson’s medical profession led the family. Amongst these were Rochester MN, Denver, CO, and ultimately New Orleans, LA. In 1968, Mary chose to attend Centenary College in Shreveport, LA, where she met Peter, her life’s love and soulmate.

Mary dedicated much of her adult life to her four children and grandchildren. Her smile was contagious, and her aura was embracing. She also loved and cared deeply for her pets. She was fervent about animal welfare and happily surrounded by her beloved cats, dogs, ducks, and chickens. They will mourn her and her generous portions. Many friends have stated that they wish to come back as a pet in the Pigott household in jest.

She was always kind, compassionate, and had a sprightly wit. Her family’s tradition and passion for care naturally led Mary to become an RN in 1992, where she could comfort and care for those in need.
After 25 years of raising her children between Houston, TX, and Wilmette, IL, she returned to the family roots in Wisconsin, where she lived for the remainder of her life.

A celebration of Mary’s life and legacy will be held in the Spring or Summer of 2021 at Wagon Wheel Farm in Burlington, Wisconsin, when the flowers are blooming and the sun warms the air.

In lieu of flowers, please donate in support of further research for MDS (Myelodysplastic Syndrome), which is a rare blood cancer with limited options for a cure at present.