Mary Virginia (Grotta) McKeon, age 65, passed away at University of Chicago Medical Center on March 26, 2020 due to knee surgery complications and ensuing COVID-19 infection. She was born in Chicago on November 17, 1954. She was a graduate of Mother of Sorrows High School in Blue Island, IL. Husband Thomas McKeon preceded her in death in 2010 after 27 years together. After raising her children, Mary returned to work for the Cook County Sheriff's Department until her retirement in 2019.

In preparing for the next chapter of life, she would be taken far too soon. Mary was known and loved by all for her enormous heart, gentle soul, humility, and endless optimism. Her sardonic wit and ability to find laughter in all things, always finding good in the bad. She devoured art in every medium, most especially music and film. She found peace in nature, beauty in the mundane, and recognized God's presence in all people. A devoted animal lover, she was committed to the humane treatment of animals and provided her puppies, Sadie and Nessie, with a loving home. Most of all she was a wonderful mother who loved her children with all of her heart.

Mary is preceded in death by her parents, Edward and Marie (Pulham) Grotta, husband, Thomas, and brother, John Grotta. Mary is survived by her three children, Thomas (Victoria), James, and Mary Rose, sister Joanne (James) Stankiewicz, brother Thomas (Dana) Grotta, and many nieces and nephews, for all of whom her love was immeasurable.

In a different time, Mary would have died surrounded by her family, who are broken-hearted that they could not be with her when she passed and must wait to honor her memory and celebrate her life at a service to be planned and announced for a future time. May scores of angels carry her in peace to be reunited in eternal peace with her dearest family and friends. Burns-Kish Funeral Homes has been entrusted with her care (219-836-5000). Please visit www.burnskish.com.

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Published by Chicago Tribune on Apr. 5, 2020.

Memories and Condolences
for Mary McKeon

8 Entries

Megan M

May 1, 2020

We were so saddened to hear the news about Mary today. She was such a lovely, kind and friendly lady. We were neighbors with her for only a short while, but enjoyed our interactions with her so much. Our thoughts and prayers are with the McKeon family.

Candace Surace

April 22, 2020

To the McKeon Family, Joanne and Tom, just heard today that Mary passed on March 26 and am shocked and deeply saddened. Have many fond and cherished memories of her and her family when they moved to Artesian Avenue in Chicago. We had drifted apart when I moved to the north side for my job after high school. Was so happy when we reconnected in 2013, but was so sorry to hear of her husband Tom's passing in 2010 which had been heart breaking for the whole family. Please know you are all in my thoughts and prayers during this very difficult time. God Bless you all.

Candace (Venezia) Surace
1332 N Peartree Ln
Mt. Prospect IL
847-308-8886

David Torres

April 17, 2020

I just heard of Mary's passing, and am so sad. She was a great co-worker, and an even greater person. I knew she was taking leave and then going to retire to have her knee operated on, so I kept in touch with her from time to time to make sure she was doing well. I hadn't heard back from her in a while, and hoped everything was ok. My heartfelt condolences to her family. I am so sorry for your loss.

Ellen

April 13, 2020

I am in shock and so saddened. Mary and I went to MOS high school together and shared some memorable moments as we drove to school together with 2 other friends. Mary and I lost touch but reconnected on Facebook only about 2 years ago. We kept in touch especially about her knee surgery that had so many complications . I was hoping to get together with her when she was able. Hearing that she developed Covid 19 and her family could not be with her is so extremely sad. I send my deepest condolences to Mary's family. May your wonderful memories of the good times you shared help you through this tragic time. May God bless all of you. Rest in peace Mary.

April 13, 2020

My condolences to the McKeon family

Lee Polly

April 9, 2020

Tom, I'm so sorry for you and your family's loss

Lynda Schmitt

April 5, 2020

To the McKeon family, Joanne and TomMy condolences to all of you and your families. Even though I have not talked to Mary in many years, I think of my friendship with Mary as we were growing up on South Artesian Avenue. We had great times together that I often think back to. She and I got married the same year, 1983, and were at each other's weddings. She was a wonderful person and your description of her is beautiful. She was a blessing to everyone.You are all in my prayers.Lynda (Leonhardt)Schmitt

April 5, 2020

We are so sorry for your loss Rose. Sending you and your family love and comfort. Tom and Dina Brennan

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