Mary Marsaa

Mary K. Marsaa, the family Matriarch, passed away Thursday December 22, 2016 in her home surrounded by her family she held so dear. She was born on April 30, 1925 to Frank and Dora (Sisto) Marcella in Keewatin, Mn. She was united in marriage to Raymond K. Marsaa on October 5, 1946 in Duluth, and were together for 58 years. Mary not only raised a family, but was employed at Bell Brothers Funeral Home for 41 years as well. During those early years she enjoyed bowling and dancing on a weekly basis. Her and Ray were quite the dancers. Over the years Mary became active as Secretary of the Professional Women's Club, member of the Italian/American Club, Red Hat Society, Bocce Ball league, and served as an election judge at Elim Lutheran Church for many years. Mary also gave of herself as a volunteer at St. Mary's Hospital for 20 years, at St. Margaret's Guild, and as a Eucharistic minister, kitchen aid and Monday morning counter at St. James Catholic Church. Knitting and reading were also a passion of hers. Above all else, her family was first and foremost, and those grandkids were given as much love as she could give. And when it came to holiday gatherings or just hanging out in her gazebo, she took charge of the cooking and entertaining in her own loving way. We were so fortunate to have her as long as we did. Mary truly was a gift...that kept on giving. Mary was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Ray; a brother, Rocky; a sister, Elizabeth 'Dolly' Makie; and a daughter-in-law, Kathryn Marsaa. She is survived by her three sons, John M. and Ronald R. (Betty Lou) both of Duluth and David L. (Karen) of Royal Palm Beach, Fl.; a brother, Joe Marcella of Brooklyn Park/Aurora; eight grandchildren, Erin (Nik) Wourms, Calianne Marsaa, Kaitlin Marsaa, Matthew (Rubinah) Morrow, Andrew (Heather) Morrow, Derek (Louise), Daniel (Ashley), Kristina (Kenneth) Olson and 10 great-grandchildren. Visitation 10 a.m. until 11 a.m. Mass of Christian Burial Saturday, January 21, 2017 at St. James Catholic Church, 715 N 57th Ave. West. Father Blake Rozier officiating.