Mary A. Howell
Obituary's Biography:
Mary A. Howell, 78, of Waukegan, IL, passed away peacefully on March 5, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.
Born on January 28, 1947, to Joseph and Myrtle Skalla (Dreyer), Mary was raised in Waukegan and remained deeply connected to her hometown throughout her life. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. Mary was the heart of her family, always putting others first and offering endless love, kindness, and wisdom. Her warmth, generosity, and unwavering strength touched the lives of everyone who knew her.
Mary graduated from Waukegan Township High School in 1965. Later in life, she pursued her passion for caring for others by becoming a Certified Nurse Technician. She dedicated her career to the labor and delivery floors at St. Therese and Lake Forest Hospital, where she found immense joy in supporting mothers and newborns. Her gentle touch and compassionate care left a lasting impact on countless families. She continued this meaningful work until her retirement.
Beyond her career, Mary had a deep love for traveling, soaking up the sun, and spending time by the water, where she found peace and happiness.
Mary is survived by her beloved children, Donna, Joseph (Cynthia), Denise (Steve), Michael (Mandi), and Diane (Dan), who were her greatest pride and joy. She was a cherished grandmother to Ashley, Alyssa, Jenny, Emily, Katie, Allison, Christian, Ethan, Logan, Tyler, Zachary, Isabella, and Laney, and a proud great-grandmother to Eli, Jade, Erin Grace, Alaia, Lea, Zoe, and baby Cane on the way. She also leaves behind many nieces and nephews and her dear sisters, Barbara, Margaret (John), and Georgine, who shared a lifetime of love and memories with her.
Mary’s loyal and loving pet, Lily, was always by her side, providing her with endless comfort and companionship.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph and Myrtle Skalla; and her brothers-in-law, Ronald Baruffi and Ron Rehor.
Though Mary will be deeply missed, her family finds peace knowing she is now at rest, reunited with those who went before her. Her legacy of love and kindness will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 AM on Tuesday, March 11, 2025, at St. Gilbert Catholic Church (301 E. Belvidere Rd, Grayslake, IL), followed by burial at Ascension Catholic Cemetery in Libertyville. Visitation will be held at St. Gilbert from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM on the same day.
The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude for all the love, prayers, and support during this difficult time. Mary’s kindness, strength, and love will never be forgotten.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Mary’s memory can be made to Journey Hospice.