MARY ANN MILES MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP | John Miles

Contact: John Miles

MARY ANN MILES – May 2, 1945-June 13, 2023
Mary Ann was born on May 2, 1945 daughter to Albin and Florence Melenas in Rockford, Illinois. She grew up with her brothers John and Paul. Mary Ann was a graduate of Muldoon High School in 1963 and became engaged to John Miles in 1964. Upon completion of John’s service in the US Navy they married on November 4, 1967 at St. Patrick’s Cathedral and moved to Milwaukee where John attended school. They relocated to Bettendorf, Iowa when John joined his fathers manufacturers representative business before returning to the Rockford area in the late 70’s. During this time Mary Ann was able to accompany John to many national meetings traveling to Hawaii, Portugal, Puerto Rico, Las Vegas, Miami, and several other locations during her younger years. In 1992, the couple relocated to Belvidere where she enjoyed the rural setting.

Although Mary Ann and John were not blessed with children they did share their home with many pet dogs including Yoko, BoJangles, Samantha, Scubby Do, Olga, and Rocket, several of which were rescued from local shelters. They had a large fenced yard to allow their beloved pets to run freely even taking an occasional dip in the pond.

Mary Ann was employed with the Rockford Municipal Employees Credit Union for 37 years starting as their second employee. There she enjoyed many friendships and acquaintances including Rockford Police and Fire as well as staff at city hall and the county.

During retirement she and John traveled to Alaska and the Mediterranean Sea on cruises. During her later years Mary Ann enjoyed sitting by the pond and listening to the water falls as well as the numerous birds it attracted to our back yard.

In January 2023, Mary Ann was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. During her last months she was comforted and remained at home where she received weekly visits from friends and family. On June 13, 2023, Mary Ann passed away peacefully at home surrounded by loved ones. She is truly missed.