Mary passed away peacefully at home with her family by her side. Mary was born in Holland during the War. Her family immigrated to Canada in 1952 settling in Aylmer, Ontario. Mary was a leader. She stood for what she believed in. She was a devote Catholic who not only believed in the word, but lived by it. Residing in Chelmsford for 38 years, she raised 4 children while working as a school teacher. She was once described as “a grandmother to all children” and finished her career doing what she loved, teaching junior kindergarten. Mary was always happy and smiling. She loved music, played the organ, and was often heard whistling or humming her favorite melodies. As part of the French church choir in Chelmsford, and later the choir in Lavigne, Mary often sang solo. She served several years as president of the supply teachers' division of OECTA, and also volunteered her time working with women in the jail, through the Elizabeth Fry Society. She is survived by her beloved husband of 46 years, Gilbert, her children Rachelle (Gilbert Roy) of Noelville, Diane (Alain Betty) of Verner, Daniel of Azilda, Jean-Paul (Isabel) and two grandchildren, Emma and Xavier of Montreal. Loving sister of Elizabeth Hryciw, Margaret Hryciw, Maria Deleemans, Case, Tony, Joe and Bill Hoffer. Mary was a kind and selfless person who gave us all something to aspire towards. Mary will be greatly missed, not only by her family, but by all who knew her. Resting at the Cooperative Funeral Home in Chelmsford, the family will receive friends and relatives on Friday, January 2, 2015 from 2:00-5:00 p.m. and 7:00-9:30 p.m. Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated Saturday, January 3, 2015 at 11:00 a.m. in Notre-Dame-de-la-Visitation Church, Lavigne, Ontario. Thank you to her doctors (Dr. Black, Dr. Mongeon and Dr. Breton-Fortin), homecare staff (Ashley and Lorraine), and everyone else who helped her throughout her illnesses. Your kindness will not be forgotten. Donations to the Alzheimer’s Society or the Sudbury Regional Cancer Center would be appreciated (cheques only). Arrangements in care of Théorêt Bourgeois Funeral Home, Verner.