The Grantsburg community is reeling from the heartbreaking loss of Maria Ann Scheider, a 48-year-old resident whose life was tragically cut short in a multi-vehicle accident on May 23, 2025. Known for her warmth, dedication as a mother, and deep ties to her family and friends, Maria’s sudden passing has left a void in the hearts of those who knew her. Her death, confirmed by the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, has prompted an outpouring of grief and a renewed focus on road safety in the region.
Maria, born on May 24, 1976, in Coon Rapids, Minnesota, was a beloved figure in Grantsburg. She grew up cherishing time spent with her grandparents, cooking, gardening, and enjoying the simple pleasures of farm life and beach outings. A natural caretaker, Maria embraced motherhood early, raising her first daughter, Cerenity, born in 1992, while still in high school. She worked tirelessly to earn her diploma in 1994, balancing the demands of young parenthood with determination and grace. Later, she welcomed three sons—Matthew, Mikel, and Levi—and a daughter, Naomi, building a close-knit family with her husband, Jeremy Scheider, whom she married in 2010. Maria’s devotion extended to her role as a grandmother to Ava, Kasen, and an unborn granddaughter, as well as her work in childcare and local restaurants, where her nurturing spirit shone.
The fatal accident occurred at an intersection in Polk County, though specific details about the crash site remain undisclosed as authorities continue their investigation. According to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, the multi-vehicle collision involved complex circumstances that investigators are working diligently to unravel. Emergency responders arrived swiftly, providing critical medical attention and securing the scene to protect others. Despite their efforts, Maria succumbed to her injuries, leaving her family and community in mourning.
Investigators are examining a range of factors, including vehicle dynamics, road conditions, and potential human or environmental influences. The sheriff’s office has called on witnesses or anyone with information to come forward, emphasizing the importance of community cooperation in piecing together the events leading to the tragedy. While the investigation is ongoing, officials have refrained from releasing preliminary findings, focusing instead on a thorough and methodical approach to ensure accuracy and clarity.
Maria’s passing has struck a deep chord in Grantsburg, where she was known for her kindness and commitment to those around her. Friends and neighbors remember her as a woman who found joy in caring for others, whether through her work with children or her role as a pillar of her family. Her funeral, scheduled for May 31, 2025, at Shepherd of the Valley Lutheran Church in St. Croix Falls, will provide an opportunity for the community to gather and honor her memory. A visitation is planned for the evening prior at Swedberg-Taylor Funeral Home in Grantsburg, reflecting the community’s desire to support Maria’s loved ones during this time of grief.
This tragedy underscores the fragility of life and the ever-present risks on the road. Polk County officials have renewed calls for drivers to exercise caution, stay attentive, and adhere to safety protocols to prevent future accidents. As the investigation continues, the community holds Maria’s family—her husband, Jeremy; her five children; her grandchildren; and her extended family—in its thoughts, offering prayers and support. Maria Ann Scheider’s legacy of love and care will endure in Grantsburg, even as the community grapples with her loss and seeks answers in the wake of this devastating event.