Mary Louise Wasz, 70, from Wauconda left us far too soon on Saturday, January 13, 2023 after battling pneumonia. She was born in Chicago to her loving parents George and Rita (nee Steinke) on December 15, 1953.
Mary grew up in Homewood, Illinois. Attending Marion Catholic High School in Chicago Heights and Northern Illinois University, she received a degree in education. Mary's love of children inspired her to continue her education and attain a master's degree. Focusing on pre-school special education, Mary touched the lives of many children through her patience and encouragement. Every interaction with a child in and out of school was purposeful. She listened intently, taught them, and challenged them to be their best. The warmth of her smile told them they were important.
Mary spent the last 40 years with her soulmate and love, Margaret Matthei. On October 11, 2014, they were joined in marriage. Mary and Margaret shared a special relationship built on caring for each other. They travelled throughout their time together, enjoying new experiences whether it was to local events or to a destination further from home. Both their families and friends were welcomed into their home for countless holidays and celebrations or maybe just a fun night of game play. Laughter was always at the center of their life. Holidays were decorated for the season by Mary with whimsy. But Mary's favorite holiday was Christmas when she could give to families in need. Helping others was her greatest joy. She lived her life with kindness and thoughtfulness. Mary continued to work after retiring from teaching because she truly enjoyed interacting with people. She could enter a room of strangers and come back with details of their life. Strangers tended to share with her because she genuinely expressed interest in them.  Mary's love extended to animals and their gardens as well. A dog or two was never absent from their home. If Mary had a farm, oh the animals you would see! And Margaret would indulge that as she loves them too but most of all because of her love for Mary.  Mary was preceded in death by her parents and her brother Don and his wife Patricia. She is survived by her sister Joann Wasz (Monica Johnson) of Elwood, Illinois; her brother Tom Wasz (Celeste) of Broomfield, Colorado; and her nephews Matt Wasz of Wilton Manor, Florida and Joe Wasz of Downers Grove, Illinois.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to:  Feed My Starving Children where Mary spent countless hours volunteering.give.fmsc.org (Adding the email mmatthei@me.com on the site will allow us to give thanks for your generosity.)  Kamin's Farm where Mary volunteered for all the toddler events. She loved her time interacting with all the children and teaching them about the animals. And no toddler time was complete without a Mary art project. You can donate through PayPal at kaminsfarm@gmail.com or mail to:  23377 W. Chardon, Grayslake, IL 60030.