SPARTA, WI – Mary K. Oswald, age 68, of Sparta, WI, passed away following an extended illness with her family by her side on Thursday, September 24, 2026. She was born March 13, 1958, the daughter of Gordon and Doris (Olsen) Johnson. Mary wed Michael Oswald on June 23, 1979, and they shared years of love, growing their business and raising their family together, before his passing in 2016. She worked at her parents’ motel in Sparta, later buying and operating it as her own business for over 35 years. Mary had a passion for rummage sales and was always on the lookout for items she could take home to restore and upsell. What began as part-time work later became a full-time job once she sold the motel, and she maintained a booth at the Sparta New and Used store for many years. Mary was a longtime and faithful member of the New Life Assembly of God Church. In addition to her loving family and friends, Mary held a special place in her heart for animals, especially those special ones who brought extra life into her home.
Mary is survived by her children: Chelsey and Trevor Oswald; brother, Chris (Diane) Johnson; sister, Caryn (Carl Friedel) Johnson; sister-in-law, Nancey Johnson; her furbabies: Teddy, Chevy and Mikey; and many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.
In addition to her parents and husband, Mary was preceded in death by her sisters: Yvonne (Jim) Rhodes and Judy Johnson; and brother, Richard Johnson.
Funeral services were held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, October 8, 2026 at New Life Assembly of God Church in Sparta. Burial followed in the Mount Hope Cemetery, Sparta. Visitation was held on Thursday, October 8, 2026 from 9:00 a.m. until the time of service at the church. Popp Funeral and Cremation Services in Viroqua is entrusted with her services.
Online condolences: www.poppfcs.com
Popp Funeral and Cremation Services
