Mary Jean Dwyer, 90, died on May 13, 2017 surrounded by family. Born on July 31, 1926 to James H. Brennan II and Edyth Roloff Brennan, she was the oldest sister of the late Dorothy Mack, Barbara Kellner, and the late James Brennan III. Raised in River Forest, she graduated from Trinity High School, and studied at Rosary College. She married Robert E. Dwyer, and they raised their five children, the late Kathleen Borkowski, Robert Dwyer Jr., James Dwyer, the late Mary (Trish) Arbogast, and Margaret (Maggie) Dwyer in Oak Park and Glen Ellyn.
She was an accomplished artist in watercolor and Chinese brush painting. Her work was displayed at the DuPage Art League and various art shows in the community. During her many years’ struggle with Parkinson’s disease, she was exceptionally courageous and graceful, expressing humor, wisdom, and gratitude to all who helped her with her medical needs. She died with dignity and peace and her courage and humility will be remembered by all she touched in her lifetime.
Mary Jean is survived by her children, Robert Jr. (Meg), Jamie (Mary), and Maggie; her sons-in-law, Ronald Borkowski and Joe Arbogast; her grandchildren, Mary Kris, Nicola, Kate, Breanna, Emmett, Emily, Edyth, Meghan and Victor; and by her many great-grandchildren.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, May 18 at Williams-Kampp Funeral Home, 430 E. Roosevelt Rd. in Wheaton, from 1 until 4 p.m. followed by a prayer service. The family appreciates memorials to the People’s Resource Center, 201 S. Naperville Rd., Wheaton 60187.
