Mary Illitch

Mary was born, raised, and married Vassili in Alexandria, Egypt. At age 23, Mary and Vassili made a bold decision to move to Akron, Ohio, in search of a safe, wonderful place to start a family and receive their college educations. They raised two sons, Alex and Paul.

Mary received a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree from the University of Akron. During her 41 year career as a teacher and counselor at Akron Public Schools, she received numerous awards, but her greatest satisfaction was seeing former students lead successful lives. Any encounter with Mary brought a joyful dose of energy and inspiration. You could see a special sparkle in her eye when she saw someone she loved, a friend, or a past student. She was a bright light and strong voice that encouraged everyone to get an education and reach their potential, especially those less fortunate. Many of her teaching colleagues became her closest life-long friends.

Mary’s greatest joy became her only grandson, Alex. All you had to do was ask about him, if you had a couple of hours. She was most proud and happy in her post-retirement years when she was able to spend time with him. Mary’s passion was celebrating every occasion in someone’s life. She brightened the day for someone every chance she could, and never forgot to send them a card. Mary’s love of travel helped feed her sense of adventure, intellect and curiosity.

Mary is survived by her husband Vassili; sons Alex (Nancy); Paul (Los Angeles); and beloved grandson Alex Patrick. She was an only child, but shared her life with the Illitch siblings: Leppa (Mike) Stakleff; Luby (Larry) Wojno; Dani (Bob) Pett. She loved her first cousins as if they were siblings: Stam and George Houlachi (Quebec). Mary also loved her step-grandchild Michael (Alli) Bimuller, as well as her family of nieces and nephews. She was a proud Godmother to Krista Stakleff, Alexandra Nicholis Coon, and Mary Nicholis Lorenzo.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Mary’s name and sent to: Project Rise/Akron Reads; Akron Public Schools; 10 N. Main Street; Akron, OH 44308

A socially distanced walk through visitation hour will begin at 12:00 pm on Friday, September 25th at the Rose Hill Funeral Home 3653 W. Market St. Akron OH 44333, followed by a brief service at 1:00 pm. COVID-19 protocols will be in place with social distancing and facial coverings

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