Mary Clare Wolf

Mary Clare Brennwald Wolf, age 93, passed away peacefully on February 24, 2025, at Baylor Scott and White Hospital in Grapevine, Texas. She was born in Chicago, Illinois, to Cyrilla Quinn and Edwin Brennwald. She was preceded in death by her brother, James Brennwald (Kay). Mary Clare led a life full of love, adventure, and unwavering dedication to her family and friends. 

She began her higher education at St. Scholastica College before transferring to Loyola University (Chicago), where she graduated in 1953 with a degree in mathematics. She worked in actuarial science until 1959, when she married Gerald (Jerry) L. Wolf, with whom she shared 65 years of marriage. Together, they raised three children: Daniel Wolf (Donna), Maureen Cushing (Charles III), and Nancy O'Neill (Sean). Her devotion extended to her eight cherished grandchildren: Quinn Wolf (Karen), Kyle Wolf, Clare Cushing, Charles Cushing IV (Skyleigh), Catherine Cushing, Erin O’Neill, Thomas O’Neill, and Patrick O’Neill. One month ago, she welcomed and delighted in her one great-granddaughter, Talli Clare Cushing. 

At a time when many women remained at home, Mary Clare broke the mold, working at Hewitt Associates in actuarial science after her youngest child entered school.

Mary Clare had many passions. A devoted and doting grandmother, she was an active presence in her grandchildren’s lives, always cheering them on. She loved having “summer camp” in Chicago with all the grandchildren on an annual basis. She was fearless, traveling to over 40 countries—sometimes even solo. She valued friendships with many that spanned her lifetime. She loved both hosting and attending a good party and had an effortless ability to connect with others through her gift of conversation and humor - if you sat next to her on a plane, she could uncover your life story in minutes. Thoughtful and generous, she never missed an opportunity to send a heartfelt card to her loved ones.

She was a true matriarch, bringing family together above all else. She was a caring daughter to her mother and mother-in-law. A devout Catholic, her faith was a guiding force throughout her life. After a vibrant life of 81 years in Chicago’s North Shore, she moved to Texas in 2013 and became a member of the Social Seniors Group at Good Shepherd Catholic Community in Colleyville, Texas, embracing new connections in her new home. 

Throughout her life, Mary Clare remained a life long learner. An avid reader of the Wall Street Journal and autobiographies, she remained sharp and engaged with the world around her. She had a passion for garden designing, decorating, good food and fashion. She treasured the outdoors. Even at 93, she lived independently with Jerry, drove, and continued to travel. 

A memorial service will be held at Good Shepherd Catholic Community in Colleyville, Texas, on March 29, 2025 at 11:00am. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Brain and Behavior Research Foundation https://donate.bbrfoundation.org/civicrm/contribute/transact?reset=1&id=1

Mary Clare’s legacy of love, generosity, and fearless spirit will live on in the hearts of those who knew and cherished her.