Dr. Mary Louise Toraason

 Dr. Mary Louise Toraason, 97, of Peru, passed away Thursday May 23, 2024, at Liberty Manor Court in Peru, Illinois surrounded by family.

Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 AM Wednesday, May 29, 2024, at St. Joseph Church, Peru with Rev. Gregory Jarzombek, OSB of St. Bede Abbey officiating. Burial will follow at Olivet Cemetery in Webster Park. Visitation will be a St. Joseph Church from 10:00 AM until the time of service at St. Joseph Church. Cremation rites have been accorded. Ptak Funeral Home has been entrusted with the arrangements.

Mary Louise was born in Spring Valley, IL on August 7, 1926, to Dr. Hiram (Mary) Toraason. She graduated from Hall High School and Northwestern University in Evanston, IL. At the age of 35, she went back to school and graduated in 1966 from the University of Louisville School of Medicine. She went on to practice medicine in California for a number of years before returning to Peru in 1970, where she owned and opened a medical clinic until 1997. Mary Lou was a devout and faith filled catholic, and lover of animals, who greatly supported those organizations for years.  Her other passions involved collecting antiques, feeding her animal friends, and spending time with her extended family. 

She is survived by 13 nephews and nieces, whom she loved like her own:  Mary Toraason of Peru, Judy Montague of Carlsbad, CA, Dr. Jeff (Barb) Toraason of Loyalton, CA, Dr. Mark (Jan) Toraason of Cincinnati, OH, Goodwin (Diane) Toraason of Peru, Dr. Luke (Erica) Toraason of San Diego, CA, Elizabeth (William) Tutton of Newport Beach, CA,  Caroline (Dale) Morris of Marietta, GA, Patricia (Steve) Pompa, of Vista, CA, John (Paula) Toraason of Peru, Dr. James (Deborah) Toraason of Glenview, IL, William (Amy) Toraason of Peru, and Claire (Rich) Cummings of Peru, along with 36 great nieces and nephews, and 47 great- great nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her brother Dr. Goodwin Toraason, sister-in-law Patricia, and great nephew Christopher Pompa.  

Memorials can be directed to St. Bede Academy Abbey or Hall Township Food Pantry.

Online Condolences and Memories may be shared at PtakFH.com