Mary Elizabeth Bird

Mary Elizabeth "Mimi" Bird, 84, of Springfield, died at 4:10 a.m. on Saturday, February 28, 2009 at St. John's Hospice. Mary was born September 30, 1924 in Springfield, the daughter of Paul Michael and Bernetta Erengis Kolaz. She married George Bardsley Bird on February 15, 1944 in the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception. He preceded her in death in 2000. Mary was a graduate of Cathedral Grade School and Sacred Heart Academy. She was most recently employed as a bridal consultant at Nancy's Closet. Mary was a member of St. Agnes Catholic Church. Her faith was very important to her and she was a devout Catholic. She was also the best mother and friend anyone could ever hope for and loved her children and grandchildren very much. Mary loved all animals and enjoyed feeding her indoor and outdoor birds. She also very much enjoyed flower gardening. She was also preceded in death by her parents and a daughter, Nancy A. Bird Wasilewski. She is survived by two daughters, Patricia J. Bird of Springfield and Georganne Bird Bredemeyer (husband, Michael) of Springfield; granddaughter, Cara Wasilewski; two great-grandchildren, Skyler and Emma Garvey; sister, Edith Lauer of St. Charles, MO; her lifelong best friend, Nancy Ryan of Springfield; and several nieces, nephews and cousins. Cremation will be accorded by Butler Cremation Tribute Center prior to ceremonies. Family will receive friends from 8:30 10:00 a.m. on Friday, March 6, 2009 at Kirlin-Egan & Butler Funeral Home, 900 S. 6th St., Springfield. Memorial mass will follow at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, March 6, 2009 at Sacred Heart Parish, 722 S. 12th St., Springfield with Rev. Anthony Pilli celebrant. Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to St. John's Hospital, Hospice Program, 800 E. Carpenter, Springfield, IL 62702.