Mary Sue Protz

Mary Sue Protz, beloved wife and mother, passed away peacefully on Monday, March 16, 2026 in Hardeeville, South Carolina, after a courageously fought battle with lung cancer. She was 65 years old.

Born June 3, 1960, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Mary Sue was the daughter of Ben and Beverly Erdman, both of whom preceded her in death. She went on to earn her bachelor’s degree from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse in 1982, and worked many years as a human resources manager with Quad. But it was the years spent raising her family in Elm Grove and Brookfield, Wisconsin, and later her work at St. Mary's Visitation Parish and School in Elm Grove, that were the most personally meaningful and fulfilling for Mary Sue.

A devout Catholic, Mary Sue's faith was as important to her as the family and close friends she cherished. For more than 20 years, she served St. Mary's in various capacities, ultimately as Director of Human Concerns — a role that allowed her to advocate for and assist individuals and families at their most vulnerable moments, giving them dignity, compassion, and hope. The close-knit friendships she built with staff, parishioners, and those who turned to the parish in times of need were among the greatest joys of her life, and she left a lasting, undeniable impression on all who crossed her path.

Mary Sue was, above all else, a true light to everyone who knew her — generous of time, steadfast in devotion, and full of genuine love.

She is survived by her loving and faithful husband of 35 years, Bruce Protz; her daughters, Molly Protz (Vas) of Port Wentworth, Georgia; and Elizabeth Protz of West Allis, Wisconsin; her brothers, Dan Erdman of Dousman, Wisconsin, and Matt Erdman (Janine) of Richfield, Wisconsin; her sister-in-law Kristine Brennan (John) of Phoenix, Arizona; as well as her many cherished nieces, nephews and grand-nieces.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11:00 am, Thursday, March 26, 2026 at St. Andrew Chapel, 222 Pinckney Colony Road, Okatie, SC.

Visitation at St. Mary’s Visitation Parish, 1260 Church Street, Elm Grove, WI 53122 on Friday, April 10, 2026 from 930AM-1045AM. Eulogy at 1045AM. Mass of Christian Burial at 11AM. In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes memorials in her name to the Human Concerns Ministry at St. Mary’s Visitation Parish and School.