Giving the gift of history

Mary Ann Stompanato left behind a legacy when she died July 2 at her home in Woodstock.

Not only did Mary inspire generations of special needs children and their families during her 25 years working for District 200, she made a mark through the many civic and nonprofit organizations for which she volunteered. They included the Women’s VFW Auxiliary, the Kishwaukee Valley Garden Club, the McHenry County Mental Health Board and, of course, the McHenry County Historical Society.

Her generosity was realized in very tangible way this fall when MCHS received a $50,000 bequest from the Mary A. Stompanato Trust. Her brother, Tom Shultz, presented the check during an outdoor, socially distanced ceremony this fall.

Mary was born March 15, 1937, in Beardstown, Ill. to Thomas "Max" and Edna (Nelson) Shultz. She graduated from Woodstock Community High School in 1955, attended Iowa State University and earned a bachelor’s degree in education from Northern Illinois University. She furthered her education at the National College of Education in Chicago.

While we tend to have fingers in many pies around this place, Mary served primarily as an educational docent and admission’s desk volunteer. As a people person, she was a natural fit. She is missed.