Mary K. MATHIEU

MATHIEU, Mary K. Mary K. Mathieu, born February 10, 1920, passed away on Tuesday, (June 15, 2010) peacefully at her home in Columbia as she wished with her only son Edward F. Mathieu, family members, and her devoted live-in aid and friend Doreen Brown at her side. She was the daughter of Lena and Frederick Kozin, and born in Brooklyn, New York. Mary was raised in Lebanon, CT., and lived her entire married adult life on Old Stone Chimney Road, known today as Old Willimantic Road, Columbia, Ct. She worked with her husband of 75 years, John, to manage a small farm where they raised their son enjoying life and watching their family grow. Mary donated her time and energy to the community of Columbia as an original member of the Columbia Volunteer Fire Department Women's Auxiliary, ST Columba Church Ladies Society, and as a founding member of the Columbia Senior Organization. Mary leaves behind her only child Edward and his wife Marjorie Mathieu of Columbia; four grandchildren, Deborah Mathieu Byers and her husband Stephen Byers of New York City, NY, John Edward Mathieu and his wife Susan Johns of Tolland, CT, Mary Mathieu Arsenault and her husband Joseph Arsenault of Lebanon, CT, Michael T. Mathieu of Columbia, CT; and one sister, Katherine Elliot of Mansfield. She also leaves behind five great grandsons and two great granddaughters, several nieces and nephews, and many cherished friends. She was predeceased by six siblings. Unbeknownst to many people, Mary was a writer and a skilled artist in her youth. She lived her life dedicated to the values of honesty and giving. She was a selfless woman who made a positive impact on everyone that she met. Mary loved unconditionally, and provided support to anyone in need. She was the centerpiece to several generations of friends and family alike. While everyone who knew Mary is deeply saddened at her loss, comfort is gained by knowing that she has longed for nearly two years to be reunited with her beloved husband John. Her family will receive relatives and friends on Friday June 18 between 5 and 7 p.m. at Potter Funeral Home 456 Jackson St. (Rte. 195) Willimantic. Her Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Saturday at 10 a.m. at St. Columba Church, intersection of Rtes. 66 & 87 Columbia with assembly at the church. Interment will follow in St. Joseph Cemetery, Windham. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Columba Church, P.O. Box 146, Columbia, CT. 06237 or to the Columbia Senior Organization c/o Beckish Senior Center, 188 Rte. 66, Columbia, CT. 06237. For online memorial guestbook and directions to the funeral home, please visit www.potterfuneralhome.com.