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Mary Frances Quinn

Mary Quinn Obituary

Mary Frances QUINN Born November 9, 1959; Mother, daughter, sister and friend. Mary's heart remained joyous through life's struggles. Her sons Andy and Ben will forever remain the apples of her eye and never-ending sources of pride. Mary felt called to her work assisting the elderly and was loved by all she served. Mary enjoyed many hobbies including quilting, collecting knick-knacks and (of course!) shopping. Family was so important to Mary and she loved spending time with her mom and dad. Mary, we will never forget your smile, your laugh, your beautiful blue eyes, your generous heart or your quick wit. We are forever grateful for the grace your life and passing have bestowed upon us. Farewell Mary, you will be sorely missed but rest assured, all who love you, await a joyous reunion with you in the life to come. Mary is preceded in death by her brother Michael Francis, her cousin Joseph Quinn, Jr., her aunt Joan Lee Coyne, her uncle Jim McGuire and her grandparents. Mary leaves behind her parents, Steve and Jackie Quinn, her brothers, Steve (Erin), Tom, Joe (Adriana), Tim, Charlie (Nancy), Matt, Bob (Suzanna), Peter (Odalis), her sisters, Lisa, Theresa and Colleen. Mary also leaves behind 16 beautiful nieces and nephews and many loving aunts and uncles. Rosary Service; Tuesday, November 23, 2004 at 7:00 p.m. Funeral Mass, Wednesday, November 24, 2004 at 2:00 p.m., St. Joseph Catholic Church, 700 18th Avenue East, Seattle. Remembrances may be made to Catholic Community Services for the Elderly.

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Published by The Seattle Times on Nov. 23, 2004.

Memories and Condolences
for Mary Quinn

44 Entries

Cynthia Long

December 17, 2004

This news brought such sadness and yet at the same time memories of great joy. Mary and Kathleen Sullivan were my bestest friends growing up. We told each other everything and went through all the typical girlie phases together.

I am sorry for your loss but know that this isn't an ending but a new beginning.

Blessings to all the Quinn family and to the friends whose names and addresses I see written here.

Shawna Hudson

December 10, 2004

Dear Quinn Family,

My heart goes out to all of you in this time of sorrow. I am so sorry you had to say good bye to Mary so early in her life. I remember Mary with her bright blue eyes and her contagious zest for everything. She was always encouraging and always had kind words for me. The Quinn family holds a dear place in my heart and my thoughts and prayers will be with you all at this most difficult time. Love, Shawna

Martin Mayovsky

December 7, 2004

Dear Quinn Family,

I am deeply sorry to hear about Mary. About 2 months ago, I spoke to Mr. Quinn about the daughters in our lives and how they still have us wrapped around their little fingers. Those days will never go away. It's the memories that will forever make us smile.

You are all in my prayers. They say time heals all wounds. I hope your time comes and goes quickly.

I plan to attend future functions at St. Joseph's and have the oportunity to talk about old times (and neighbors).

Again, I am so sorry.

Your old neighbor and friend,

Martin.

Rebecca Davis

December 1, 2004

I am so happy to have had the opportunity to have met Mary at the family reunion last September. She was a spectacular person with such a zest for life. Although our meeting was brief, my life will be forever blessed. My prayers are with all of you during this sad and most difficult time.

Robert Quinn

December 1, 2004

Dear Friends,

I just finished reading the kind words written about our wonderful sister. And as I reflect on the words spoken to me about Mary over the last couple of weeks, I am sure that she is ecstatic to know how everyone feels. For those of you that were at the funeral, we sincerely enjoyed talking to you, meeting you for the first time, or meeting up with you again. For those that could not be there, no problem. Mary is now with us all.

Boy, The "hill" really came out. My mom and dad have been inundated with cards, letters, flowers, voice messages, mass cards, and HAMS! (dad loves those). It is a beautiful comfort to them.

As I said in my comments during the service "...no person is a failure that has friends." The Quinns have a lot of friends out there. And we thank you, one and all. Most of all, thanks Mary. You really are the best! Can't wait to see you, soon!

Hugo Taylor

December 1, 2004

Mary had the ability of making the world turn the way that we're facing. She was a Miracle.I loved

her immensely.

Hugo Taylor

Gayle Blum

November 30, 2004

Dear All,

I was so lucky to have met Mary at the McGuire Reunion in Sept. She and I spent a lot of time talking and I really enjoyed her company, her warm welcoming demeanor. The sparkle in her eye...

She talked about the love she had for her children, and all her family. I will always remember her collections, her postive outlook on life. She was a "half-full" person.

I will miss her.

Love Gayle

Monica Hardy Whaley

November 29, 2004

All of the Quinns are in my thoughts and prayers. I have wonderful memories of Mary from HNA and cannot imagine how difficult this unspeakable loss must be.

Julie McKay

November 29, 2004

Dear Quinn Clan,

Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. I was able

to attend the reunion & feel very grateful for getting the chance to give beautiful Mary a huge hug.

With love,

Rita Donnelly (Blood)

November 29, 2004

My thoughts and prayers are with all of you at this time. I will always remember her energy and love of life as we made our way through life at St. Joe's

Dianne Bahe (Sifferman)

November 28, 2004

As one of Mary's many cousins, I have the wonderful honor to call her family. Although I haven't seen her since Grandma Quinn's funeral, I think of her often, remembering her beauty, and laughter, and kindness. My love goes out to Andy and Ben... whom I knew as babies... to Steve and Jackie, and all of her siblings. We will continue to hold her in our hearts... but we will miss her every day. It is rare that we are touched in the way that Mary touched us all.

Steve Newman

November 28, 2004

No words can express the sadness of losing her nor the joy of knowing her.

Tracy Hedrick

November 27, 2004

My deepest love and respect is freely given to the Quinn family at this time of permanent change.

It is from within the love of the Quinn family that Mary was born and raised into one of life's sweetest miracles.

Mary watches over us now, and I pray that she smiles with me as she watches me stumble through this life. And yet I know that when it is my time to cross into the greatness, Mary will be there to welcome me, greeting me with the same love and laughter that she shared with me while we were together here on earth.

Thank you, Mary. Until we see each other soon....

Ann Saunders

November 27, 2004

Having met up with Mary in Bellvue last May, I was surprised at how she hadn't changed since childhood except that she was more open and more reflective and feeling like she had to make it back to her Catholic roots. She was very dear to talk to, and thank goodness we were in a spot that we had the chance to do that. She started talking to my daughter, telling her she was so jealous of her and then she went into telling her about her Dad, how she really felt she was his favorite, how well her mother had treated her growing up, and now. She spoke about her more recent life ,golfing in California, etc. That is when I recognized her,and sure enough we started talking of the coming re-union and she made me promise to wear jeans so she wouldn't be the only one wearing jeans there. She also told me her sons were her most important acheivement in life and I truly hope that they realize that they are Mary's legacy to this world. I am sure they will do her proud, and that they will remember to get comfort from Mary's parents and family and friends when they most need it.In that way they will be comforting those whom they ask help from I'm sure, because we'd all do something for Mary if she asked, and if she could -she'd ask for her sons when they are in need. Jackie and Steve and Mary's close family, if you need anything that I can do for you, dont hesitate to ask. I'll be praying for you. And if you just need someone to talk with, I've had some small experience in bereavement counseling in Hospice and my local Church here in Enumclaw,Sacred Heart. I'll do my best to find resources for you, everyone's grief is different and people will not always understand what you are going through but Christ is there and His mother Mary. Prayer to and with them can be a HUGE comfort. Ann (Keefe) Saunders

Mike Long

November 27, 2004

Dear Quinn Family

I was saddened to hear about the loss of Mary, whom I hadn't seen in almost thirty years. I have such fond memories of growing up on 18th Street with all of you, and hope that love and courage will carry you through this difficult time.

Michael Mayovsky

November 26, 2004

I am SO sorry to hear that Mary has passed away. I got a chance to talk with Mary back in July when I attended the St. Joe's Alumni Reunion. I was in the area and drove past my parent's old house and Mary was on her front porch. We got a chance to chat for a while. What a beautiful woman she turned into. She will truly be missed. My thoughts and prayers are with Mary's family.

Cathy (Smersh) Pilgrim

November 25, 2004

Mary was a happy, go-lucky girl I remember from the '70's. My thoughts and prayers are with her family.

Mia Calkins

November 25, 2004

To the Quinn Family - I am so very saddened by Mary's passing. She was a beautiful and incredibly warm person. I grew up with Mary, just down the street from your family and will always have very fond memories of her. Her loving spirit will be a part of everyone who's life she touched. God bless...Mia Calkins

Joseph Tobin

November 25, 2004

Dear Quinn Family,

I am deeply sorry for your loss. Mary was one of the few that made growing up on 18th such a great memory. We will all miss her very much.

Sincerely Joe Tobin

Bill Smersh

November 25, 2004

Many, many, many years ago Mary and I were teenagers, full of youth and having fun. Mary Quinn loved me and for that my soul has been enriched forever. Some would question whether teenagers can truly be in love to which I respond - I loved Mary Quinn.

Paul Newman

November 24, 2004

My prayers are with you and for your all of your family.

Tom Ott

November 24, 2004

My memories of Mary were very precious because of our puppy love for one another in those formative years at St. Joseph. We even went to Tolo together in High School although, that was one of the last times I saw here until this 30th year reunion. All those great memories of our time together came back when we spoke and embraced.

She will be deeply missed by all of use now although, there is a great reunion in heaven where we all meet again.

Love,

Tom Ott & Family
(Sherri, Mellissa, Katie, Tommy,
Lexi)

Dave Clemen

November 23, 2004

To the Quinn Family,

Very sorry to hear of your loss. Mary always had a sparkle and fire in her eyes that I will never forget. Though her time with all of us is over far too soon, carry her spirit in your hearts and she will live forever. Our prayers are with you.

Dave, Kim & Family.

Susan Laughman-Winterowd

November 23, 2004

Dear Mr. and Mrs. Quinn and family,

I was shocked to find out about Mary's passing. Unfortunately, I missed my opportunity to see Mary again at the 8th grade reunion. I had a previous engagement to take a dozen Girl Scouts camping in Oregon.

Mary and I attended kindergarden to 8th grade together. We were on most of the same school teams and were in Camp Fire Girls together. There are so many wonderful memories in which Mary and I were a part.

The last time I spoke to Mary we were about 25 or 26. She came over to my house on 18th to a Tupperware party. We talked about our parents and how hard they had worked to create the protected childhoods we had. We both came from large families (12 kids) and how everyone needed to work together to make things run smoothly. We laughed about our Mom's calling us by our siblings names until they came to ours!

I hope you know Steve and Jackie,that Mary knew the special,fun filled, crazy wonderful life you and other parents of large families in St. Joes created for us. Mary and I laughed and reminisced. "Remember when it snowed that one year?",I asked Mary. "yea, it must have snowed 3 ft." Mary replied. We all met on the corner, on Aloha. It was so beautiful. Everything so white, cold and perfect. We sled and skiied down the hill. We all ran home in the afternoon to hot soup and dry clothes and then back to Aloha for more sleding, way past dark. We all had pretty strict bedtimes, but the parents let us stay up this time. Many of you parents stood on the corner and watched us kids while some of our wonderful childhood memories were being sown. We both agreed, we had great childhoods. By our parents example it would make raising our own kids easier "Yes," we both said. We gave each other a hug, and said our goodbyes.

I moved away from the hill and out of Seattle after my Mom died in 1990. That was the last time I saw Mary. "The little Irish girl, that was a go getter," my Dad had dubbed her at one of our CYO games. And that's how I remember Mary. One of the few and blessed that was lucky to live at a very special time, in a very special neighborhood. "The little Irish girl that was a go getter."

-May God Bless you and keep you,

Love (a neighborhood kid)

Susan W-Laughman

Lisa Harris

November 23, 2004

Dear Quinn Family, I am so very sorry for your loss. I too remember Mary for her beauty, her sense of humor, her charm, and most definitely her eyes. I’ll never forget how she was kind to me in a troubled time in my life. We ran into each other on 15th East and Mercer in the beautiful Seattle sunlight, a few days before her wedding. She’d come from getting her hair done—trying out the style in preparation for the big day. We shared a moment then that changed my life. She showed me such compassion and grace. It is a privilege to have known her. God bless you all.

Molly (McKillop) Crocker

November 23, 2004

I am praying for Mary and the whole Quinn Family. -Molly

In one of the stars

I shall be living

In one of them

I shall be laughing

And so it will be as if

All the stars

Were laughing

When you look

At the sky at night~

~THE LITTLE PRINCE

Antoine de Saint-Exupe’ry

andrea prendergast

November 23, 2004

With heavy heart

I say good-bye

Though I shall

See you by and by

In all that is bright

In energy strong

In the whispery breath

Of an Irish folk song

In a gentle hand

On an old furrowed brow

I'll see you and

Will know somehow

Amidst lifes certain struggles

With deaths sorrow and pain

The goodness of Mary

Is our sweetest refrain.

My heart and that of my entire family is with you all,

Andrea Prendergast (shenton)

Judy Knickerbocker

November 23, 2004

My dear Jackie and family,

I’m so saddened to hear of the loss of your lovely daughter Mary. She brought such light and joy to our work at In the Beginning Fabrics in the mid 1980’s. I know all your hearts will feel empty without her presence. She will shine on in her children, and our memories forever. My prayers will be with you.

Judy Knickerbocker,

Bothell, Washington

Peggy Maze Johnson

November 23, 2004

To all of the Quinns:

I cannot adequately express my shock at this news of Mary's untimely death. What a tragedy for all of you, but mostly for her two boys that will never truly know what a great joy Mary was to so many. I have wonderful memories of Mary from the time she was in the fourth grade and I was substituting at St. Joe's. She had such a sparkle. Suzie and I were just sharing memories a few weeks ago when she was showing me the pictures from the reunion.

I am so sorry for your loss. Mary always will have a place in my heart. She is now at peace!

Fondly, Peg

Pat Lesser Harbottle

November 23, 2004

Dear Jackie & Family,

John & I are so sorry to hear of the loss of Mary Frances. She will be in our thoughts & prayers. God bless you all.

Bob Smersh

November 23, 2004

From the music we played so frequently 30 years ago:

Your candle burned out long before

Your legend ever did

Good-bye, Mary. May your family and friends find comfort with the passage of time.

Sky Spooner

November 23, 2004

Dear Quinn family,

I wanted to write and express my sympathies to you all during this hard time. Although most of what I know about what’s going on out there comes to me through Colleen, I’m touched by what I know to be happening. It seems that Mary had more than her share of people who loved her-- as I’ve been told (and heard directly through the telephone). There seems to be a constant activity surrounding the family, people reaching out, giving, conversing, visiting, getting in touch, consoling.

I’m glad that you all have had the chance to come together and be able to grieve in the company of loved ones and honor Mary in a way that brings the family peace and makes you all proud.

Sara Shelton ( Breene)

November 23, 2004

Dear Quinn family,

I was so sad to hear about your loss. I just reconnected with Mary at our thirty year grade school reunion. She looked beautiful and was so full of life. Mary had a certain sparkle that no hardships could extinguish. She told me her greatest accomplishment in her life were her two boys and how proud she was of them. God bless Mary she will be missed by her St Joe's classmates.

Sara Shelton (Breene)

Nancy Smersh

November 23, 2004

I am so sorry for your tragic loss. My prayers are with Mary and all of you, her family.

Brian Burke

November 23, 2004

God bless Mary & the entire Quinn Family. May God comfort you during this sad time & provide strength & peace for all that suffer with Mary's loss.

Monica Welch

November 23, 2004

My heart goes out to you, the Quinn Family, at this time of great loss. I also remember Mary for her beauty, sparkling blue eyes and for her love of life from the years we worked together at Bloch's. How long ago that was, but now it seems not long at all. May you rest in peace Mary.

Birdie Ghiglione

November 23, 2004

Beautiful Mary Quinn

What a heartbreak, Mary has been taken from us way to soon. As one of God's children, she is in a safe and blessed place now. My love, thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Birdie Ghiglione

Paula Polet

November 23, 2004

Mary, My favorite memory of you is when you, Lisa and Theresa were preparing for a formal dance at Immaculate. You were all so funny and beautiful in that moment! Love Paula

Suzie Maze-Nicholson

November 23, 2004

My thoughts are with the entire family. She will be sorely missed. God bless. Suzie

John and Mona Sauvage

November 23, 2004

Dear Quinn Family,

You are in our thoughts and prayers. What a tragic loss. We have such wonderful memories of Mary. She will be dearly missed.

If there is any way we can be of help or service please let us know.

Again, our pryaers are with you.

John & Mona Sauvage

Pam Polet Muskett

November 23, 2004

Dear Andy, Ben, and Quinn Family,

Just a note to say how sorry I was to hear about Mary's death. I have been gone many years from Capitol Hill but I will always remember Mary's beauty and athleticism. She will be missed by all. Please accept my condolences for your loss. Sincerely, Pam Polet Muskett

Theresa Nasmith

November 23, 2004

Dear Jackie, I was so sorry to hear about your loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Theresa

Larry Newman

November 23, 2004

I'm very sorry that Mary had to leave us this early. I found this Irish blessing that seemed particularly fitting:

Always remember to forget

The things that made you sad.

But never forget to remember

The things that made you glad.

You are all in our thoughts and prayers.