Mary Ann Roper

Mary Ann Roper

Arlington Heights, IL

Mary Ann Roper, a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully after a brief illness in Arlington Heights, Illinois.

Born in Atwood, Tennessee, Mary Ann was one of seven siblings. She was preceded in death by two brothers and one sister. She grew up in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, where she graduated from Washington High School and later earned a Bachelor of Business Administration (B.B.A.) from Coe College and a Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.) from North Central College.

Mary Ann spent more than 25 years at Quaker Oats, where she built a respected career before transferring to the Chicago corporate office, where she retired. Her field knowledge was invaluable on many important projects, including the design and implementation of the company’s transportation information system. She was valued by many for her mentorship and steady presence.

She will be remembered as a woman who was straightforward yet deeply empathetic, a gifted storyteller, and someone who found joy in art, books, and opera.

Mary Ann is survived by her two sons, Greg and Kenneth; three grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews; and friends in both Cedar Rapids and Arlington Heights.

In keeping with her wishes, there will be no formal services. Her ashes will be spread in Iowa. Arrangements are being handled by Giancola Funeral Home in Chicago. To view the extended obituary or share memories, please visit giancolafuneral.com. Memorial donations may be made to the American Diabetes Association or the American Heart Association.