MARIA AYLWARD
September 27, 1929 - April 24, 2023
Obituary
Maria Louise Aylward, 93, a resident of Neenah, WI, and Gulf Stream, FL, passed away on Monday, April 24, 2023. Louise, as she was known, was born September 27, 1929, in Rumford, ME, daughter of the late, Henry C. and Maria (Drozniakiewics) Press. Louise married Edmund William Sr. on June 23, 1951. They celebrated 40 years together before Edmund preceded Louise in death on February 4, 1992.
Louise graduated from Stevens High School in Rumford and later, after attending Bates College in Lewiston, ME, graduated from Lawrence University in Appleton, WI. Louise was also a Registered Nurse.
Louise was known for her acerbic wit which she matched with a generous heart. As a community leader she engaged in many endeavors: the YMCA-as president; the emergency society, and meals -on-wheels. However, her real passion was Rawhide Boys Ranch in New London, WI; where she funded several facilities including two boys' homes and an endowment to provide for their ongoing operation. Her professional decorating talent also came into play when she provided the interior design and personally furnished the 200 seat Aylward Auditorium.
The Bridge tables of Palm Beach will certainly miss the dynamic duo of Louise, a life master since 1997, and her good friend, Betty.
Louise is survived by her three sons: Bill (Christine) Aylward, Palm Beach, FL; Andrew (Barbara) Aylward, Colorado Springs, CO; and Richard (Amy) Aylward, Neenah, WI; seven grandchildren: Casey Anne Aylward, Caitlin Claire Aylward, Eleanor (David) Caitlin Innes, Donovan Cassidy Aylward, Andie Louise Aylward, Abbie Miriam Aylward and Audrie Marie Aylward. She will also be missed by her close friends and companions: Steve and Donna Engelland, Tom Franklin, and Linda (Jim) Kelly. She is further survived by the spouse of her late brother, Dr. Erich P. (Olive) Press, Two Rivers, WI; and nieces and nephews.
A private family service will be held. A public celebration of life for Louise will be held at a later date.
Louise's family would like to extend a special thank you to her caregivers, especially Grace and Amanda.