Mary A. Robinson

Mary Robinson, 91, of Mesa, AZ formerly of Topeka, KS, passed away April 19, 2012 in Mesa, AZ. She was born June 22, 1920, in Topeka, the daughter of Joe and Leota Birnbaumer. Mary was a graduate of Seaman High School in Topeka.

Mary grew up with one brother, Audrey Birnbaumer, deceased and one sister, Jennie Frances Lindsey, also deceased

Baseball was always a part of Mary's life. In her early years in Topeka, she played baseball for the Marling-Chesney team as pitcher – going on to win several state championships.

She continued playing ball after her marriage to Jack Hicks in 1942. Jack Hicks, who was general manager, along with his mother, Mrs. Ethel Mohney, part owner, ran the Topeka Owl Baseball team. Mr. Hicks passed away in 1949.

Mary married Otho Robinson, Captain USAF, in 1953 and moved away to El Paso, TX. He was killed shortly thereafter in a bomber training accident along with other members of his group in California. Mary then moved back to Topeka where she became employed by the State of Kansas, State Corporation Commission, and was there until her retirement in 1986.

She was always very active – playing golf, fishing, or hunting. She loved to entertain, play gin rummy and take trips with her friends.

Survivors include her daughter, Patricia Donahue, Patricia's husband, Ed Donahue, Mesa, AZ and grandson, Casey Donahue of Orange, California. She is also survived by her niece, Judy Sturgell, Mesa, AZ and a nephew, Joe Lindsey, Kansas City, KS.

Mrs. Robinson was cremated. Memorial services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 5, 2012 at Penwell-Gabel Mid Town Chapel, 1321 SW 10th Avenue, Topeka, KS. Inurnment will follow in Rochester Cemetery.