Mary Ann Jares

We mournfully announce the passing of Mary Ann Jares, 79, from Omaha, Nebraska. Mary passed away on January 14, 2021, after a hard-fought battle with lung cancer, at home with her granddaughter, Nicole, in Meridian, Idaho. She was diagnosed just a few short months ago in August 2020.

Mary, born to Edward and Lizzie Jares (Tuma), took her first breath on 21 September 21, 1941 in Elba, Nebraska. She has two siblings, Maxine Jares (passed in 2008) and Jim Jares (living in Saint Paul, Nebraska).

Mary has one son, Joe Jares. He is married to Sherri, living in Cedar Park, Texas. They have three children, John, Rebecca, and Alexander.

Mary attended rural schools near Elba and then graduated high school from Saint Paul High School in 1959. She eventually made her move to Omaha and then worked as a custodian most her life. She ended her career at the University of Omaha.

When Mary retired, she devoted most of her time to volunteering at Corrigan Senior Center in Omaha and going Polka dancing with Rita, Clara, and friends, especially to the Starlight Ballroom. She also loved walking through Little Italy, over the Bob Kerrey Bridge, and around downtown with her friend, Lynnette.

In 2017 she decided to move to Boise, Idaho to be with her granddaughter, Nicole, her husband, Kevin, and great-grandchildren, Grey and Klaire. While in Idaho, she enjoyed traveling around the state, going for walks and hiking. Even in her 70s she was able to pass up people on moderate level hikes! Mary was able to travel to both coasts and go to Disney World with Nicole, Kevin, Grey and Klaire, all within the last few years. Mary loved flowers, especially tulips, traveling, her porch swing, and anything having to do with her Czech heritage.

Mary's body was sent back to Nebraska to be buried with her mother and sister in the National Bohemian Cemetery.  Graveside Services will be at 11:00 A.M. on Monday, February 1, 2021 at the National Bohemian Cemetery in Elba, Nebraska.  Visitation will be from 9:30 A.M. - 10:30 A.M. on Monday at Jacobsen-Greenway-Dietz Funeral Home in St. Paul.  A Celebration of her life will be held at a later date. (Nicole will have the details as available, but feel free to reach out if you have questions.  Nicole’s cell phone: 402-332-8562 )  In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the family to be designated at a later date.

She was an amazing woman and we will miss her dearly!