Mary Mietta Dawidczik

She lived and was raised by her loving grandmother, Mariana, until the age of nine when her grandmother passed away. Her uncle, Paul Fontana, assumed her care until she turned 16. She was then reunited with her mother in San Francisco where she finished high school. She had dreamed of becoming a nurse and attended and graduated from Saint Joseph’s College of Nursing, San Francisco in 1949. After graduation she worked in a doctor’s office until she met and eventually married Walter (Wally), whom she had met at a dance. They married in 1951 at Sacred Heart Church in San Francisco. They lived in San Francisco, Santa Rosa and Pacifica prior to moving to Merced in 1966.

During her life in Merced, she spent years volunteering at Our Lady of Mercy school, supporting her children’s activities. She continued that legacy with her grandchildren. She was an avid San Francisco Giants and 49er fan and would occasionally attend a game with family dressed in full fan attire. She was employed by McDonald’s for 26 years, eventually becoming a manager.

Mary was preceded in death by her grandparents, parents, spouse, uncle, grandson, and cousins. She leaves behind her children Greg (Valerie), Ann Garcia (Rocky) and Jim (Mary), 12 grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren. Also, her brother Jeff Fontana, sister-in-law; Carol Fontana, sister Joann Fontana and brother-in-law; Matt Tjeltveit.

Her greatest love and enjoyment were her family. Her favorite place to visit was Hawaii. So, “ALOHA” mom, Grandma, Nonna.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donation be made to Our Lady of Mercy Athletic Fund, Merced California. Sincerest gratitude to Covenant Care Hospice for the loving care and support they provided in her final days.

Rosary will be held at Our Lady of Mercy gymnasium at 1400 E. 27th St, Merced, California, 95340, at 7:00 p.m.

Funeral will be held at Our Lady of Mercy Church, 459 W 21st St, Merced, California, 95340 at 10:00 a.m. with reception to follow at Our Lady of Mercy Gymnasium.

Interment will be held privately for family only.

Through this site, we invite you to view and share cherished photos and videos, share fond memories and expressions of sympathy for the Dawidczik Family or share the obituary with others via social media and email. Arrangements are under the direction of Stratford Evans Merced Funeral Home, Diana Narravo, Funeral Arranger.