Mary Kate Lauer

Mary Kate Lauer was born in County Roscommon, Ireland, on February 15, 1926, to Michael and Bridget Cawley. She was orphaned at an early age, and along with her siblings, went to live with her maternal grandmother, Mary Flynn, on the family farm in County Sligo. Upon graduating from school, she worked in Northern Ireland.

In 1956, Mary Kate emigrated to the United States. She lived with her sister Bridget’s family in New York, and she found employment there with the telephone company.

Mary Kate met John Lauer at an Irish dance, and after a whirlwind courtship, they were married, in 1957. They relocated that same year to Jacksonville Beach, Florida, where John was stationed with the US Navy.

Upon completion of John’s enlistment, they moved to Oregon and raised their family in Beaverton. She and John shared a love of gardening, actively participating in several rose societies. Mary Kate truly loved being a mother, wife, and grandmother. Gathering family together for big Sunday and Holiday dinners she would cook brought her incredible happiness.

Faith was important to Mary Kate. She was a devout Catholic for her entire life.

Mary Kate passed away on May 21, 2025, at the age of 99.

Mary Kate is survived by her husband, John; by her sons: John (Kristine), David (Maryann), Michael (Melissa); and by her daughter, Colleen (Michael). She is also survived by her grandchildren: David Jr., Marissa (Zack), Vanessa, Jasmine, Emmit, and by her sister: Bridget (Kurt). Mary Kate was preceded in death by her parents, Michael and Bridget Cawley; by her brothers: Patrick, Michael, and Thomas Cawley; by her nephew, James O’Brien; and by her infant daughter, Janet.

A special thank you to her family, friends, and caregivers for their love, prayers, and support at this sad time.

A visitation for Mary will be held Thursday, June 12, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 10:30 AM at St. Cecilia Catholic Church. A prayer service and funeral mass will follow.

Mary Kate will be laid to rest following a graveside service at 2:30 PM at Mt. Calvary Catholic Cemetery.