Mary F. Mathus

She was born October 3, 1921 in Grinnell, IA to Loyd and Florence (Swaney) Deming.

Surviving is two daughters Billie (Richard) Ball of Peoria, Barbara Pruitt of Peoria; one son John “Butch” Mathus of Princeville; 13 grandchildren, Chris, Cathy, Colletta, Craig, Jeanne, Kim, Terry, David, Mark, Daren, Shelly, Brandan, Spencer; and 15 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by two sisters, one brother and one grandson David Mathus.

Mary worked at Caterpillar for 27 years retiring in 1983 from the Tech Center. She was a member of Cat Retirees Club and was of Methodist faith.

Mary was a kind and gentle woman. One of her favorite pastimes over the years was going to movies with her grandchildren. It was not unusual to see her holding the hand of a little one as they boarded a city bus and headed to the movie theatre. As one grandchild grew, another was old enough to take their place and she began with another generation as she became known to many as “GG” for great-grandma. Although she never drove, she was active and independent. She loved to travel and many of the trips included her very grateful grandchildren.

Even in the last hours, she had a smile and wave for the many loved ones who were with her. She never did complain an all spoke of her sweetness to the end. She was an avid dog lover who gave a wonderful home to many dogs over the years leaving behind Sadie. We all know she is now without pain and pray that all of her past dogs are waiting for her at the Rainbow Bridge.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m., Saturday, February 19, 2011 at Davison-Fulton Woodland Chapel. Rev. Russ Richardson will officiate. Visitation will be one hour prior to services at the chapel. Burial will be in Parkview Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to T.A.P.S., P.A.W.S., or American Cancer Society.

Online tributes and condolences may be made at www.davison-fulton.com.