Mary A. Askins, 100, passed away on Sunday, December 19, 2021 at Froedtert Pleasant Prairie Hospital in Kenosha, Wisconsin. Born June 5, 1921 to John and Maurine (Clanin) Fayhee in Bernadotte, Illinois, Mary graduated from Yates City High School and a Peoria business school.
She first married Walter M. Rowland Sr. and later married Edwin (Ed) L. Askins on December 22, 1966 in Cuba, Illinois. Ed passed away February 13, 2001.
Mary had five children, David Rowland, Walter (Sheryl) Rowland, Roger Rowland, Mark (Fran) Rowland and Marti Mills.
Mary’s many accomplishments include being the owner/operator of the ME Store opening in 1972. The business had a tremendous recognition for high quality men’s and women’s clothing with customers from many states.
It was through that business that she and Ed began a ministry which later became Prairieland Open Bible Center. Mary was a charter member of Prairieland Open Bible Center and Board member of Galesburg Rescue Mission.
In addition to nurturing a large family Mary obtained a real estate license and served as an accountant for Fayhee Implement for several years.
In her adventurous spirit Mary obtained a pilot’s license, loved roller skating, early morning swimming, motorcycle riding at 85; and at 98 years said “I’ve gone faster” after riding in a Corvette at 110 mph.
Mary’s life included many accomplishments; however, her priority was always her family and faith. She was recognized and respected by her family and all who knew her for her deep devotion and tireless effort to serve others.
For relaxation Mary enjoyed knitting and reading.
Mary was preceded in death by her husband, Ed, brothers Donald, Doyle and Paul, sister Eloise Coultas and sons Roger and David Rowland.
Mary is survived by sons, Walter (Sheryl) Rowland, Mark (Fran) Rowland of Florida and daughter, Marti Mills of Kenosha, WI, and step-daughter Vickie Newell. Also surviving are grandchildren Elizabeth Mills (Ryan Kleeman); Katie Mills (Dave Harding); Stephen Mills (Becky Leffler); Trevor (Kristie) Rowland; Jodie (John) Felter; Christopher Chandler; Chris Deeters, Joey Deeters; Brent Deeters; Elizabeth (Mark) Jensen; Jared (Felicia) Herren; Crystal (Josh) Wright; Brad (Shelly) Rowland; David (Barb) Rowland; Rebecca (Corey) Reynolds; 22 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchild, along with many loving nephews and nieces.
Funeral services will be held at the Prairieland Open Bible Center at 110 South Center Street in Prairie City, IL on Tuesday December 28, 2021 with visitation from 9:30 to 11:00 a.m., followed by the service at 11:00 a.m. Graveside services will follow immediately after at the Prairie City Cemetery, Prairie City, Illinois. Memorials can be made to Prairieland Open Bible Center in Prairie City. Online condolences may be made at www.wisefamilyfuneralhome.com. Wise Family Funeral Home in Avon is in charge of arrangements.
