Mary Ann Pilet

Mary Ann PiletOctober 21, 1927 – May 24, 2018Mary Ann Pilet went home to God, and leaves behind her son, Heydrill Llama-Dross, and daughter, Mary Ann (Teto) Pilet, son-on-law, Scott Ridgway, as well as many nieces and nephews. Her death was preceded by her husband, Roy Lee Pilet in 1971. Mary Ann was born in East Chicago, Indiana, to Paul & Katherine Sekmar, who were Czech Slovak immigrants, and belonged to the Russian Orthodox community. Mary Ann was the youngest of 7 children and was always considered “the baby”. She was a very spiritual woman who grew up poor, but rich in love and joy in the little things. She is at peace in Heaven, on the next phase of her journey.Although Mary Ann was very shy, soft-spoken and quiet, she was also filled with curiosity and fun. She had an amazing sense of humor and laughed easily at everything in life. She was very intelligent and creative, with many interests, such as politics, travel, art, movies, cooking, sewing and crocheting; she excelled in all areas with enormous talent. She was sweet and humble, and truly did not know what a bright light she was in everyone’s life. Those who knew Mary Ann well, loved her deeply and were blessed to be a part of her life. Her kindness, understanding, empathy and love were boundless. Her husband and children came first and in turn, their love for her could never be replaced by anyone. She was the favorite aunt for many nieces and nephews. Her mischievous smile and fun demeanor brought joy to every moment that you spent with her. She would listen to everyone, keep confidences, did not pass judgement, and only gave advice when it was solicited. She had a very deep awareness of what others were feeling and would try to help them through their problems or tribulations, without pushing her own opinions onto them…just a little guidance and wisdom.Those who did not know her well, or only met her briefly, still experienced her sweetness and quickly fell in love with her; they could feel the light radiating from her. Mary Ann did not know how she affected others by just being herself, which was also the beauty of her gift. Mary Ann had wanted to accomplish more in life as she loved to sew, crochet and explore nature. She wanted to go to places that she had never been, to sew a special quilt for her son, and to crochet beautiful items to give as gifts or sell. But, as she came closer to the end of her life, she said, “Well, you can’t get to everything.” That statement is so poignant and powerful. The moments that are most precious are the times where you can just “be”. Sitting quietly and looking at the world; the flowers, birds, squirrels and neighborhood cats roaming around, and listening to life around you. Moments spent talking with family, whether it’s about your day or telling a story about a slice of life long passed and sharing a good laugh…or cry; these moments are what truly matter. If you accomplish everything in life that you desire, you will not be left wanting or thinking about that next thing with excitement. What would you have to look forward to in this life? Now that Mary Ann is moving through her new realm of existence, she can forget about all the wanting, the pain, and the loneliness of life at 90 years old, and enjoy that next phase. Mary Ann leaves behind her loving family and the joy and wisdom of a great mind and soul. Her legacy lives on through her children and the lessons about life that profoundly moved and shaped our worlds. Those who knew and loved Mary Ann are welcome to attend her interment at St. Nicholas Cemetery in Hammond, IN  on Wednesday, May 30, 2018 at 12:00 PM with Fr. Lev Holowaty officiating prayers.