As a young woman, Mary worked as a seamstress for Smoller Bros. in Herrin, IL, and as a candy striper at Salem Hospital in Salem, IL. After marrying, she settled into motherhood, raising three children in Belleville, IL. Over the years, Mary had many friends and acquaintances. She loved people and they loved her.
If there was a Grandmother Hall of Fame, Mary would have been a first-year inductee! She lived for her grandchildren. Mary was the best babysitter and cheerleader. No one encouraged louder or clapped harder than she did.
When Mary’s grandchildren grew and no longer needed her regular care and guidance, she enjoyed going out to eat. Every restaurant in the metro-east served Mary at least once and many quite frequently. Her weekend luncheons with her daughter Amy lifted her spirits and carried her to the end. The two of them had a bond that only mother and daughter could share.
Our mother and friend Mary will forever be missed, but we send her to God, knowing she is at peace and with the loved ones who passed before her.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 46 years, Joseph Slimack, whom she married on December 28, 1957, in Herrin, IL, and who died on May 1, 2004; and her parents, Paul and Gaetana, nee Serati, Rescaldina.
Surviving are two sons and a daughter, Dr. Joseph Paul (Karen) Slimack,
David Charles Slimack,
and Amy Christine Slimack;
and four grandchildren, Jonathan, Katie, Madeline, and Hannah Slimack.
The Slimack family extends a heartfelt thank you to Drs. Brian and David O’Neill and to Mary’s many friends and caregivers at Cedarhurst of Shiloh, Memorial Hospital, Freeburg Care Center, and Family Hospice.
Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society or to the American Heart Association. Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.rennerfh.com.
Visitation: Friends may call from 4 to 8 p.m. Sunday, August 2, 2015, and from 9 to 10 a.m. Monday, August 3, 2015, at George Renner & Sons Funeral Home, Belleville, IL.
Funeral: Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Monday, August 3, 2015, at George Renner & Sons Funeral Home, Belleville, IL, with Fr. James Thomas officiating. Burial will follow at Green Mount Catholic Cemetery, Belleville, IL.
Condolences Left For Mary Slimack
This is for Amy since I do not know the two sons. Amy, I always enjoyed your mom: she was fun and generally upbeat. In her younger days when I knew her, she was ready for a good time and a hearty laugh. She was so proud of you.
Loyce Williams, Belleville, IL, 62221
Dear Joe,Karen and Family:
Our deepest sympathies are with you during this time of loss. Your mother was a wonderful woman, full of strength and goodness.It was a privilege to have known her and she will be missed! Lots of wonderful memories of her with you all and the kids!
Worrells, Enid, Oklahoma, 73703
Mary was one of the most “bubbly” people I have ever met. Her face was always beaming with that great smile. She was not only a great grandparent, but she raised 3 great children with her loving ways.
Cheryl Smith, Belleville, IL, 62226
We have fond memories of Mary and the time we spent together.
Ken and Jean Vaughn, Belleville, IL,
Dear Joe, David and Amy,
My thoughts and prayers are with you. I loved your mother. My mom and I had many fun lunches with Mary and so many laughs and good times. Lots of great memories, your mom will be missed.
Connie Abbott Hagan, Dallas, TX,
Amy, Madeline, Hannah and Family. I was blessed to have spent many Sundays, as well as other days enjoying all of you. Laughing crying sharing life’s events photo’s I’m sending my Love and Prayers to you all. I have missed seeing you and spending the time together we did while visiting me at Pasta House. She was a loving happy fantastic person that will truly be missed but left a impression on me that I will never forget. Sorry i was not there in person but my heart is . With Love Lynn You will remain in my heart forever .
Lynn Stowers, Belleville, Ill, 62220
Amy I’m so sorry to hear of your moms passing, your family is in my thoughts and prayers.
amy becker, o’fallon, Illinois, 62269