Barefoot Bay
A new angel was welcomed to Heaven on January 1, 2011. Mary Marino peacefully passed away at Life Care Center of Palm Bay after a short illness. She joins her spouse of 70 years, Michael, who preceded her in death just 6 months ago. Mary was born in Somerville, Massachusetts on August 28, 1917. After a two year courtship, she accepted Michael’s offer of marriage and ring during a pizza dinner, setting the importance of food in their relationship forevermore! She married her soul mate and eternal partner in 1939 in Ansonia, and then moved to Waterbury, Connecticut, where they raised three beautiful children.
Mary was a remarkable woman who will be remembered for her unconditional love and lifelong support of her family. Her smile, sincerity, unfailing optimism and sense of humor endeared her to all. She was a loving and kindhearted mother who was deeply devoted and immensely proud of her children. She took joy in every moment spent with her family, saying so often, “It doesn’t get better than this!”
Mary was a stay at home mother until her children were in school, and then worked for 20 years at Hayden Switch Factory. Assisting in the assembly of parts for NASA, she was honored with an award by NASA astronauts for her contribution to the Space Program. After retiring in 1986, Mary and Mike moved to Barefoot Bay, where they enjoyed an active life making many friends, joining the Italian-American Club, and spending time with all three of their children and families.
Besides her family, Mary’s passion was cooking authentic Italian cuisine. (This was appreciated by her family, friends and anyone fortunate to be around at suppertime!) She loved to share her recipes and secrets, and was happy to teach any who expressed interest. We can still hear her say, “Stir the sauce. Don’t let it stick!” Homemade sausage, meatballs, pasta and sauce were perfected, but her family made sure she continued to practice!
Mary is survived by her children, Loretta Mikulskis, Linda Stryker (Bill), and Richard Marino (Deborah); grandchildren, James Begley, Rob Mikuliskis, Lisa Yagur and Elizabeth Ghiotto; four great grandchildren, Drake, Justin, Joshua and Jade; and her brother, Charlie Diluzio, of Naugatuck, Connecticut.
A private family gathering is planned. Condolences may be expressed to www.fountainheadfuneralhome.com. Arrangement entrusted to Fountainhead Memorial Funeral Home, 7359 Babcock Street SE, Palm Bay, FL 32909; (321) 727-3977.
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