Mary Marek

MARY E. MAREK (nee Tock) age 82, beloved wife of Cecil “John”; loving mother of John (wife Juliet), Tim, Bill (wife Susan), and Joe (wife Kristen); devoted grandmother of Joseph, Jenna, Rachel, Harry, Sarah, Leah, Chris, Timmy, Jake, Molly, and Ginger; cherished daughter of the late William and Catherine (nee Holowinski) Tock; dearest sister of John Tock (wife Marsha), William “Bill” Tock (wife Marilyn), Grace Tock (husband Tom Sadler), Pat Foley (husband Fred, deceased), Bern Muscarello (husband Tom), and Peter Tock (wife Kathy); dear aunt and friend of many.

Mary grew up in Chicago in a large family. She met the love of her life and husband of 62 years, John, at a school dance. She and John enjoyed flower gardening, collecting antiques and antiquarian books, working on their home, and spending time together.

She loved children and volunteered as a Cub Scout den mother for her sons’ dens. She encouraged her children to care for pets, and good-naturedly allowed cats, dogs, tortoises, snakes, and rabbits to join the family.

Mary enjoyed cooking, and passed her handwritten recipes to her sons. Mary’s tuna noodle casserole remains a family favorite. She enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren and created holiday traditions for her large multi-faith family, like a Christm-ukah family singing competition and gag gift exchange that continue today. Her silly gag-gift exchange items were sought-after because they always contained hidden surprises.

She loved telling stories about her youth in Chicago, and shared stories about eating bacon fat sandwiches growing up over games of cards or Quirkle.

Early on, she helped her young sons in a snow clearing business, teaching them the value of hard work and how to enjoy their jobs. After her children finished their schooling, Mary, a life-long learner, returned to college, graduating with honors with a degree in accounting from Cleveland State University.  She worked for Child Support Services of Cuyahoga County and at Kramer and Zwick, CPA until retirement.

Mary loved her family and enjoyed cheering them on in their accomplishments.  She will be missed by all.
Love, her Family

Contributions may be made in memory of Mary to the Cleveland Sight Center, University Circle 1909 East 101st Street Cleveland, OH 44106.

All services private.

Cremation and arrangements entrusted to THE DeJOHN-FLYNN-MYLOTT FUNERAL HOME OF WILLOUGHBY HILLS.