Mary E. Stryker, 99, Topeka, passed away Sunday, October 6, 2019 at Brewster Place.

Mary was born October 11, 1919 in Marysville, the daughter of John and Tena (Kuoni) Griswold. She graduated from Marysville High School and Kansas State College, majoring in home economics and education.

She taught school in Little River, KS and moved to California with her sister, Amy, where they hoped in some small way to help with the war effort and to be closer to her future husband who was stationed in the Pacific. She taught at Hollywood High School for 3 years. Returning to Kansas, she taught at Blue Rapids Highs School which later consolidated into Valley Heights School District.

She was a member of Blue Rapids Baptist Church for many years before moving to Topeka in 1986. She was a member of First Baptist Church and later attended Topeka Baptist Church. She was also a member of P.E.O. sisterhood in Marysville, Eastern Star and Delta Kappa Gamma Honorary Teachers Society.

She enjoyed attending both football and basketball games at Kansas State and was an avid supporter of the university. Her love of Kansas State was only exceeded by her love for her family.

Mary married Floyd Jay Stryker on November 15, 1944. He died August 18, 1986. Survivors include son, Ross (Mary) Stryker, Lebanon, MO, daughters-in-law, Gay Stryker, and Karen Stryker, both of Topeka; 6 grandchildren; and 8 great-grandchildren. She was also preceded in death by sons, Charles, Ronald and James.

Cremation has taken place and a Memorial service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, October 11, 2019 at the Dove Southwest Chapel, 3700 SW Wanamaker Road. A reception will follow the service at the funeral home. Inurnment will be in the Prospect Hills Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Prospect Hill Cemetery, 600 East Avenue, Blue Rapids, KS 66411.

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