Mary Jane Zihala

Mary Jane Zihala passed away in her home on January 9, 2025 in Des Moines, Iowa after a four-year battle against metastatic breast cancer. She was proceeded in death by her parents, Joseph P. Zihala and Anna Such; her sister, Elizabeth “Bette” Zihala; and her brother, Joseph A. Zihala. Left to cherish her memory is her daughter, Katharine E. Zihala; and her brother, Robert Zihala; along with a host of friends.

Mary was born in Chicago, Illinois on March 16, 1966. She was a long-time employee of Marsh McLennan where she was hand selected, due to her talents and hard work, to relocate to Des Moines to transfer the professional liability program to a new platform.

In Iowa, Mary became a dedicated mother. She was involved in her daughter’s various activities over the years including, but not limited to, dance, music lessons (violin, trombone, voice), t-ball, and Des Moines Roosevelt Marching Band where Mary was serving as Band Booster President at the time of her death. Mary loved her daughter and took great pride in all of Katharine’s achievements and adventures.

Although cancer ultimately prevented her from seeing Katharine’s graduation this May from Des Moines Roosevelt, her toughness, spirit, and fight allowed her to raise Katharine until she was almost 18 years old. Mary did an amazing job raising her daughter. Katharine is smart, funny, caring, and beautiful. She is a wonderful student, fantastic singer, talented musician, and leader. All qualities from her mother. Mary always put her daughter first, even if it meant putting her daughter before herself. Mary will be missed by the ones who loved her. Soar high Mary.

Mary will be cremated at Hamilton’s Funeral Home. There will be no services. In lieu of flowers, donations for Katharine’s education and future can be sent to Nindy Coles, 1051 Starline Avenue, New Virginia, Iowa 50210.

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