Mari Beth Driscoll 12/31/2025

Mari Elizabeth Driscoll—known affectionately as Mari Beth, MB, McCabe, Big Red, Liz, and Bethie—passed away peacefully on December 31, 2025, at Our House Senior Living in New Richmond, Wisconsin. Born on May 26, 1948, in New Richmond, Mari was the beloved daughter of Chris and Ruth McCabe. Growing up as an only child and the sole grandchild on the McCabe side, she was born into an adult world with a fiery spirit and writing materials raring to go. She spent her childhood creating special bonds with cousins and an array of Aunts and Uncles that took her under their wing. Most notably her special bond with “Grandma McCabe” who was a loving force in Mari’s life.

From an early age, Mari embodied a spirit of adventure and curiosity, beginning her travels at just five years old, where her father would check her in with the train crew. Dreaming of correcting papers and a desk she could claim, spending summers with her beloved Aunt Margie, laying the groundwork for a lifelong love of storytelling. Her journey took a meaningful turn when she met Billy Driscoll at Slaughter’s snow hill in grade school—and that was a game over. Little did she know, there would be many O’ more games in her future. Creating countless memories traveling with the KC softball crew.

Mari attended St. Kates and Madison with aspirations of a career in journalism, but in 1969, she made the joyous decision to marry Bill Driscoll. Together, they crafted a life rich in exploration, faith, humor, and the loving chaos that came with raising their two children, Devon and Chris.

Mari had the opportunity to transfer to Dublin with Honeywell in 1975. She loved to tell the stories of their 4 months traveling through Ireland in a VW van with 2 year old Chris before returning to New Richmond.

Her role expanded as a doting mother and a copilot on family adventures. Comic relief gliding through art shows with Devon, following Chris’ sporting events and bonding with her grandson Malachy. Hosting family gatherings was her jam! The more the merrier was her motto. From the Driscoll’s to the Earley’s and pop up’s in between. You could bet it was filled to the brim with laughter, great stories, picture taking and drinks on the house. Any day to gather and bond was such fulfillment for her. Known for her open-door policy, she welcomed all who crossed her threshold. The laughter, stories, and camaraderie shared around her kitchen table were the fabric of her life—binding family and friends together in joyful memories.

Mari’s interests were profound and varied. She knew her way around a dance floor, the library, a principals office, her gardens, a spirited political debate, sports trivia, especially the New York Yankees—and first love, Mickey Mantle, with Frank Sinatra a close second and a decent selection of whiskey. A cherished past time included writing personal letters to her favorite athletes, authors, movie stars and comedians. She was thrilled when they would return with a note and autograph.

She had an impeccable knack for community service. Notably, she made history as the first woman elected to the New Richmond City Council in 1978. She would continue to serve on many other committees throughout the years.

As a woman of many talents, Mari balanced her various roles with grace, working as a secretary in the lab at 3M, a personnel manager at the New Richmond Clinic, Doar, Drill and Skow and later, with a little Irish guilt from Ruthie, she returned and created her own backdrop working mornings at the Shamrock.

A backdrop of community, sports updates, crossword puzzles, conversation, politics, unmeasurable laughter and a perfect communal offering of malaprops to add to her collection. She was happy to hand over the reins to Chris and enjoyed visiting without a time clock.

Mari enjoyed a well-lived life—a day filled with books (usually reading 5 at one time), the New York Times crossword puzzle, cherished conversations with friends, and connecting with family. Throughout her life, her sharp wit with a raised eyebrow and infectious laugh left an imprint in the hearts of all who knew her.

Mari is preceded in death by her parents, Chris and Ruth McCabe; her beloved husband, Bill Driscoll; and her sisters and brothers-in-law, Sue (Ed) Driscoll Erickson, Pat Driscoll, and Josie Driscoll. She is survived by her son, Chris Driscoll; her daughter, Devon Driscoll; her cherished grandson, Malachy Driscoll; brothers-in-law Jim (Margaret) Driscoll, Mike (Brenda) Driscoll; and numerous other relatives and friends.

We are grateful for the staff at Our House. Thank you for embracing her spunk and keeping her cozy.

A celebration of Mari Beth’s remarkable life will take place in early Spring 2026, details to be announced. Mari will be remembered for her warmth, her extraordinary spirit, and her open heart. May she rest in peace.