Mary E. (Beck) Egan

EGAN - Mary E. (nee Beck)
Of Tonawanda, TWP, July 18, 2019.
Beloved wife of the late Edwin G. Egan; dear mother of Kevin (Linda), Sean (Wen) Egan, Martha (late Joseph) Hassenfratz, Daniel J., William J., Anne M. Egan, Ellen (Neil) Kavanaugh, Nora (Joe) Green and the late Amy (Raymond) Altenburger; loving grandmother of 20 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren; sister of Kerin “Bud” (Gail) Beck, Katherine “Bonnie” (late Barry) Heddon and the late Lauretta Beck, Peggy (late Richard) Karnes, and Arlene (late Guy) Hopkins; also survived by many nieces and nephews.

All are invited to a Funeral Mass at St. Amelia’s R.C. Church, 2999 Eggert Rd., at Cornwall Ave., Tonawanda, Saturday (November 30th) at 11 AM. Please meet at church.

Memorial contributions to St. Amelia’s Parish Outreach Program are preferred.
 

Nearly 91 years old, Mary Ellen Egan, loving wife and devoted mother of nine children, peacefully joined her late husband, Edwin, at home on July 18, 2019 in the company of loved ones. She was the third of six children born to Leo and Marie Beck in Snyder, NY. Mary graduated from Holy Angels Academy, where she met many of her life-long friends. Strong-willed and fiercely independent, Mary continued her education, graduating from D’Youville College with a Bachelor of Science degree in Medical Technology. With the money she earned while working in a physician’s office, Mary bought her first car, which she considered to be quite an accomplishment. 

Mary was swept off her feet and married the love of her life, Edwin, in August of 1953. Together they built a beautiful family of nine wonderful children each grounded in their strong faith.  Mary tirelessly provided a warm, loving, supportive environment which fostered each child’s best talents. Despite the large number of children, she didn’t miss a trick. Equal parts loving and strict, she doled out compliments like candy, as well as encouragement to each child to reach their full potential. She strongly believed that God gave everyone gifts to be shared. These gifts brought great responsibility and could not be squandered. A dedicated wife and Mom, Mary treasured her family but always had time to help others. A busy parent, she had a full schedule driving her children to activities, but still made time to make delicious home-cooked meals, including fresh bread that her large family enjoyed.  There was always room for extra friends at her table. Her home was always bustling with activity with both family and friends.  In later years, after the children moved out, Mary’s home remained an epicenter for fun with impromptu parties, weekly bridge club, and many family celebrations.  Mary’s home was where everyone gathered.  A generous person, Mary opened her arms, her heart and her wallet to anyone in need.

Along with her family, Mary’s faith was of utmost importance. She was a very strong woman with an equally strong moral compass. She and her husband, Edwin, attended 6:30 AM mass at St. Amelia’s church every day for decades until they could no longer drive, arriving early to say her personal prayers of gratitude and thanks.  Mary and Edwin were both extremely active in St. Amelia’s parish, serving as Eucharistic Ministers, working in the Outreach office, and volunteering their time. This strong faith guided Mary through her entire life, instilling a healthy respect for God in each of her beloved nine children, nineteen grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

Sharp minded, quick witted and gregarious to the end, Mary was always fun to be around. Inquisitive, intelligent and well-read, she openly shared her opinions on any subject and was always interested in learning something new. Her warm heart won over staff in the Hospital as well as her Aides at home during her last days.  She had the uncanny ability to bring joy to everyone around her.  Her own God given gifts were never squandered and her love for others will be sorely missed.

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