Mary Ann Fraser

Mary Ann Fraser, of Lakewood CO, died on Wednesday May 18, 2022 at St. Anthony Hospital. She had just celebrated her 73rd birthday on May 15. Mary Ann had been in the ICU following a car accident on May 6th, and passed away from complications.

Mary Ann was the first daughter of five children born to Robert and Ann (Carton) Brodell on May 15, 1949 in Moline, IL. She is survived by her four siblings: Mike and Linda Brodell of Ankeny, IA; Regina (Brodell) and Ray Portscheller of Mesa, AZ; Catherine Brodell of Moline, IL; and John and Patti Brodell of Davenport, IA. Growing up, the Brodell family were active members of Sacred Heart Church in Moline, where Mary Ann played the organ from the age of 14. She attended Alleman High School and went on to complete undergraduate and graduate degrees in music and music education at (Marycrest) St. Ambrose College and Northern Illinois University. This was the foundation for Mary Ann to become a life-long private music teacher to 1,000s of students, teaching piano, guitar, voice, organ, and other instruments.

Mary Ann was married to Michael Blean from 1970 to 1997, during which time they lived in Erie, IL and raised two children, Matthew Blean (Dillon, CO, b. 1972) and Molly (Blean) Kemmer (Littleton, CO, b. 1974). Molly and her husband, Nick Kemmer, are mom and dad to Mary Ann’s two beloved grandchildren, Halley (19) and Sam (17). During her years in Erie, Mary Ann and her family were members of St. Ambrose Parish, where she played the organ and guitar at mass. She enjoyed golfing at Erie Country Club, as well as playing racquetball, billiards, and sharing her artwork with the community. Mary Ann will be remembered as a multiple-time Illinois State 8-ball billiards champion, with a competitive spirit. 

After living and teaching in Fulton, IL (1997-2005), Mary Ann moved to Lakewood, CO, where resided with her second husband, Burt Fraser, (m. 2006-) until her death. Mary Ann continued to share her musical gifts as a private teacher, and as an organist for First United Church in Arvada, CO, where she and Burt were active members. Mary Ann also pursued additional education during this time to cultivate her graphic art talents. Burt and Mary Ann enjoyed attending antique car shows, musical events, and browsing for treasure at estate sales together. She also enjoyed sourcing instruments for students who could not otherwise afford them. Mary Ann loved being close to her grandchildren and their activities, and enjoyed one of her final outings at a sunny soccer game with her family, watching Sam. She was deeply loved and will be missed by all.

Mary Ann will be buried on Arsenal Island, Rock Island, IL on Friday, June 3 following a 2:00p graveside ceremony. An additional celebration of life service will be held for her at First United Church, 7195 Simms St. Arvada, CO 80004, on Thursday, June 9th at 2:00p. 

In lieu of flowers, please honor Mary Ann’s legacy by donating to https://www.savethemusic.org/   , a non-profit that helps students, schools, and communities reach their full potential through the power of music. This would honor Mary Ann’s legacy as a brilliant musician and teacher, and allow her passion and purpose to continue.

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