Dr. Mary Margaret "Marnie" Rigney, age 99, passed away on June 13, 2026, surrounded by the love of family and friends.

Born in Evona, Missouri, Marnie was raised by her grandparents and her beloved Aunt Patty. She attended a one-room schoolhouse alongside her cherished brother, Max, and, following graduation, returned to teach there. Possessing an unwavering passion for education and lifelong learning, Marnie earned her Bachelor of Science degree from Northwest Missouri State College and began her career as a Medical Technologist in Kansas City, Missouri.

With the financial support and encouragement of her cousins, Marnie continued her academic journey, earning both her Master's degree and Ph.D. from the University of Missouri at a time when few women pursued such advanced degrees. She later accepted a tenure-track position in the Biology and Microbiology Department at the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh, where she rose to the rank of full professor. Throughout her distinguished career, Dr. Rigney served as Director of the Medical Technology Program and mentored numerous graduate students as they pursued successful careers of their own. Her dedication to teaching and research was recognized with the prestigious Rosebush and James Duncan Awards.

Outside of her professional accomplishments, Marnie found great joy in the companionship of her treasured cat, Leroy, and dog, Mandy, who brightened many days after long hours at the university. She cultivated a wide circle of friends and chosen family through her many interests and activities.

After several decades in higher education, Marnie embraced an active retirement in St. Louis. She excelled in the Senior Olympics, earning multiple gold medals, and enjoyed golfing, gardening, studying the German language, and tracing her family genealogy back to the 16th century.

Marnie was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved brother, Max Rigney, and his wife, Coral; their son, Michael Rigney Sr.; his son, Matthew Rigney; and her dear Aunt Patty.

She is survived by her niece, Judy Rigney; great-nephew, Michael Rigney Jr.; and her adopted St. Louis family: Robin (social director) and Tom (golf consultant and bartender) Barron, Nicki, Erin, and Shaun. She also leaves behind additional chosen family members, including Patti (trainer and golf buddy), Kate (German language partner), and Sandy (wonderful aide at Autumn View Assisted Living). Her Oshkosh family includes Mary Shepard; John, Tess, and Mary Margaret Strous, her namesake; as well as former colleague Joe Zilinsky and his wife, Callie, of Maine.

Rest in peace, Marnie. You will be missed beyond measure. We hope you are teaching Mandy new tricks, playing catch with Max, and enjoying a slice of Aunt Patty's pie. Yours was a remarkable life, exceptionally lived and lovingly remembered.

Per Marnie's request no formal services were held, she was toasted at Tucker's restaurant by friends and family sharing an evening of stories. Anyone wishing to contribute to a memorial please consider the John E. Strous and Mary M. Rigney Medical Technology Endowment. Make checks payable to:  UW Oshkosh Foundation , 625 Pearl Ave, Oshkosh Wi 54901, on the memo line add Fund number 8432 or Rigney Endowment. Contributions can also be made to the Humane Society of Missouri . As a service of the SCHRADER Funeral Home and Crematory, please share memories of Mary and condolences with the family in the on-line guestbook at Schrader.com.