Mary Whittle

I feel that Mom was the "perfect mom." She made us all feel so special and loved. If kids excluded me she would say, " It's their loss." She always said that people were more important than things. She would help me with Algebra into the night and get up in the middle of the night and early morning for whomever was the baby at the time. Pre-microwave she would keep supper warm for any of us who had school activities, Dad working late, etc. The many celebrations of Christmas Eve at 220 Lewis will forever be cherished memories of all of the children , grandchildren and even some of the great-grandchildren. Many a card table would serve all the families. Brunches were always ham, hash browns, bacon and eggs for as many of the families who could come. Dinners would be ham, green beans and her famous scalloped potatoes. Mom sewed all of our clothes for many years, even all my bridesmaids dresses as well as jumpers for all my four younger sisters! She gave the boys haircuts, including some of the neighbor boys, too! Before the invention of foam rollers, she tied our hair up in rags every Saturday night for church in the morning. Mom and Dad were always eager to take care of grandchildren when any of us needed them, for a week or for a moment's notice at any time. Mom and Dad gave us the best example by going to the health club every day after retirement. They were so active for so many years, traveling to all of the grandchildren's first communions, confirmations, graduations from high school and college! After we all chipped in and bought them one of the first video cameras, they videoed many of these occasions. Camping vacations were packed with some of our fondest memories around the campfires. They would sleep anywhere, on a piece of foam in a tent or on a floor!!Mom never forgot to send birthday cards to kids and grandkids for many years! Into their 80's they danced the two-step. Just a few years ago, Mom said, "How can all of these people just sit there when there is such great dance music!!" One of Mom's saying was, "There is never a lack of people to pray for." She faithfully prayed her Rosary for all of us. Mom will forever be famous for her beautiful, loving smile. Kathy (Whittle) Dreyer.

Condolences from Kim and Don Olsen. We lived at 230 Lewis for several years. Mary Ellen and Jerry were the best neighbors anyone could ask for. Always positive and friendly and concerned about the neighborhood. We had many a good conversation and enjoyed their support on Central Terry Park Task Force. Give our best to Jerry and our prayers are with you all.