Mary Holtzman

Mary Louise (Straw) Holtzman, one of two children of Raymond and Mary Elizabeth (Beason) Straw, was born February 2, 1938 in Nebraska City, Nebraska. She attended Indian Hills School at Peru, Nebraska, and graduated from Peru Normal. Later in life Mary attended Peru State College, where she earned her Masters Degree in Special Education.

On April 4, 1969, Mary was united in marriage to Robert Holtzman at the Christian Church in Nebraska City. They made their home in Auburn and were blessed with 48 years of marriage.

Mary worked for many years in the office of Educational Service Unit #4 in Auburn. After receiving her teaching degree, she remained with ESU 4 as a special education teacher, and taught in many schools in the Unit’s area of coverage.

As a member of the Auburn Christian Church, Mary was active in Mary-Martha Circle. She had also belonged to the VFW Auxiliary at one time. Mary loved music, and learned to play both the violin and piano. She also was an avid reader.

For health reasons, Mary became a resident of the Good Samaritan Society-Auburn in October of 2012. It was there she passed away on Thursday, July 6, 2017, at the age of 79 years, 5 months, and 4 days. Her parents and brother David preceded her in death.

Mary is survived by her husband Bob of Auburn; son Larry Ray Lotter of Washington; step-children Gail Holtzman of Rockford, IL; Peggy and husband Larry Slater of Rockford, IL; Larry and wife Pat Holtzman of Auburn; Jay and wife Janiene Holtzman of Levelland, TX; Iris and husband Jim Michaud of Clarksville, TN; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren; other relatives and friends.

A graveside funeral service will be Monday, July 10, 11:00 a.m. at the Ashland Cemetery in Ashland, NE. Burial will follow. Visitation will be at the funeral home Sunday noon to 6:00 p.m., with family greeting friends 4:00 to 6:00.

Memorials are suggested to family choice.