Mary K. Wilson

A native Californian, Mary passed away on Wednesday, July 29th 2009. She was 83. Mary was preceded in death two years ago by her loving husband of 60 years, James M. Wilson.

Mary was born in Southern California April 25th, 1926 to Gifford and Hazel Kirsch. Her younger sister Julia passed away in 1967.

Inspired by her Great Uncle David Willoughby, Mary was an accomplished artist and was adept at painting in multiple mediums including oil, acrylic and watercolor. She worked as the Art Director of the Los Angeles Mirror News for a time and was very active in the Southern California Art Association, exhibiting and selling her artwork in many venues. Her use of color and her original sense of design were evident in her work.

Mary lived in Santa Monica until 1973 when she moved to her home in La Selva Beach. She continued to exhibit her artwork throughout many art galleries and exhibits in Northern California. She taught Art both independently and at the Adult Education School in Watsonville.

In her later years, Mary enjoyed annual trips to Santa Barbara with her husband. Together they enjoyed the food and martinis at Joe's and the ambiance of Santa Barbara. She also enjoyed walks to the beach with their dog and passing along her artistic talent to her granddaughter.

Mary is survived by her sons James Jr. of Boston, MA and Christopher of Aptos, CA and her granddaughter, Sarah of Aptos, CA.

Services will be held at Mehl's Family Chapel at 222 East Lake in Watsonville at 2PM, Monday August 3rd.

Donations can be made in Mary's name to Hospice of Santa Cruz County 940 Disc Dr. Scotts Valley.