I was so sorry to hear of Mary’s passing. Heaven certainly gained an angel. Mary was a colleague of mine at Transamerica. She was a partner to the business looking to create win/win solutions. I learned so much from her in the early years that stayed with me throughout my career. My thoughts and prayers to her family as they navigate life without her spark in it. But I know her kindred spirit will be alive for all of them daily.
Anne Spaes
February 6, 2023
Jerry, I am so very sorry to hear of Mary's passing. When you were just into the shop I had such high hopes as you did for her. She will always be remembered by her great smile and the kind person she was. Thank you for sharing her with all of us! I enjoyed having you and Mary sit for lunch and talk. Hugs to you and all. Please stop out when you can.
Jennifer L Goodlove
February 3, 2023
I’m so sorry to hear about Mary. She was a joy to work with over the years - a real gem. May she rest peacefully in God’s Heavenly Home.
With Sympathy,
Kathleen & Pat O’Donnell
Kathleen O’Donnell
February 1, 2023
I knew Mary since the LI days and recall her as always sweet, funny and helpful. My condolences to her family and friends.
Jill Jamieson
February 1, 2023
Mary was always so sweet and kind. THAT is what I always remember about her. Very sad to hear of her passing. May you rest in peace, Mary, always with a sweet smile.
Kathy Dronebarger
February 1, 2023
Kevin and family - we are saddened to hear of Mary's passing. Although we did not know Mary well I do remember her from when I was little, very little. I remember the smile and her beautiful face. And from what others have written she sounds like a wonderful person! She will be missed by everyone who knew her. Good bless and we will be praying for everyone. Love you all!
Mark, Shelley, Sam and Max
February 1, 2023
I am saddened to hear of Mary’s passing. She was such an incredibly wonderful person and always a sweet, sweet soul. Growing up with Mary was always like having a mom away from home. She loved and cared for her boys unconditionally and was always there with advice, kind words and a hug. My sincere condolences to Jerry, Kevin and all of her family. Heaven definitely gained another Angel.
Jeff Koffron
January 31, 2023
Mary taught me to not depend on one answer to my question. She encouraged me to ask several questions for the same topic and to not except just one option. To probe for more. Mary had a good and caring soul.
- - - - -
As I age, I go to more retirement celebrations for folks I worked with. I also go to many more funerals of my co-workers.
Mary's passing got me remembering my cherished memories of those Transamerica folks we have lost:
“While Time marches on, many good folks
fall by the wayside along the way.”
- Bill Waldie
Bill Waldie
January 31, 2023
Mary was a ray of sunshine in all the lives she touched and always had time to lend an ear or a belly laugh. When I heard and now read “In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to AZ Happy Trails”; My thoughts immediately went to the day Mary, and I went to our good friend Brenda’s funeral in Chicago. All 3 of us had so many, many great laughs together. As I was driving Mary and I home after the funeral, it was late, it was slightly raining; 45 degrees. An animal scampered in front of the car of the 2-lane highway; out of nowhere. All that was around us, was farmland as far as the eye could see. I was stunned and asked, “Mar, did you see that?” She said, “You have to turn around, that was a dog and it looked scared.” I said, “Of course it did I almost hit it.” I hesitated a bit not knowing if the dog was someone that lived close by and got loose, or sick, or worse rabid or…Mary said, “It’s fine, turn around.” I did. Mary got out not thinking about anything I thought of, just that this 40-pound dog that looked like a Cocker Spaniel, out in the rain, scared and shivering with nowhere to go needed her. Mary picked him up and put him in the car in the front seat with her, wrapped him in her coat and said, “Turn the heat on high, this poor guy is shivering.” I said, “Ok Mar, now what, we’re 50 miles from home.” She responded, “We’ll take him to the Linn County Animal shelter,” as she was calling them. I said, “You have them on speed dial?” She called the shelter every day to see if they found the owner, 3 days later, they did find the owner and they were reunited. I said to Mar, “Guess that’s how it’s done when animals have angels looking out for them.” Miss you Mar, tell Brenda hi.
Jerry, this is so hard to believe. Mike and I share in your sadness. I have so many memories with Mar and we had the best time together, especially at Transamerica. Mary will be greatly missed; she touched the hearts of so many. Our prayers are with you and your family.
Lora Raymon
January 31, 2023
I am heartbroken to hear of Mary's passing. She was an amazing person who was always there for anything anyone needed and always up to get together. I valued her as a mentor to me at Transamerica and it didn't take long to know that she was someone who would be a lifelong friend. After she retired, we always looked forward to our group TA dinners because we knew they would be filled with so much laughter and new memories to hold tight. She always wanted to know what was going on in our lives, how our families were doing and beamed with so much pride when she talked about her own family. She was a one-of-a-kind human being and those whom she loved were very lucky individuals. I will forever be grateful to have known her and called her my friend. I will cherish every memory I have with Mary. Sending so much love to Jerry and the rest of the family.
Chrissy Vandersee
January 31, 2023
Jerry, I am so sad to hear of Mary's sudden passing. Larry and I have such great memories of bowling in Saturday night couples league with both of you. SO many years of laughter. Peace and grace to you and your family going forward as you navigate thru these difficult and trying times.
Sandy Dierks
January 31, 2023
Jerry and family, my heart hurts to hear of Ms Mary passing, she was such a good friend, always had a lot of good laughs when we went out. Also we had many good years of bowling together, now we just go out and laugh. God has another good ANGEL in heaven, whom will be watching over all of us. You are all in my thoughts and Prayers. Till we see each other again Mary. Love ya.
Barb Vajgrt
January 31, 2023