Mary Kay Rezac

Mary Rezac (Burkey) was born on April 17, 1947, to Stanley and Athea Burkey in Sioux Falls, SD. She was the third of six children. Mary's life was marked by an eagerness to help and serve others in many ways.

Mary's childhood was blessed with fun, and she blessed those around her with her sense of humor. She held fond memories as the weekly grocery helper on trips to "Red Owl" with her wagon and helping to feed the family, starting in the fifth grade.

After graduation from high school, Mary spent a year studying to be a Licensed Practical Nurse. She loved nursing and helping people who were struggling.

After graduating from nursing school, Mary joined the Presentation Sisters in Aberdeen, SD. She loved spiritual prayer. After nine years of community, Mary chose to leave the community in pursuit of a different life.

After ten years of discernment, Mary met her husband, Michael Rezac. They married in 1984. Mary and Mike adopted their two boys-Peter, born in 1987, and Benjamin, born in 1989.

Mary's life was gifted with friends, life as a nurse, being married, and raising her two boys. She worked as a nurse for 48 years before retiring. Her care for others didn't end there, as she volunteered with hospice and doing blood pressure clinics at the church to name a few.

Those who knew Mary would speak of her selfless commitment to caring for those around her, especially those who struggled to care for themselves.

Mary was the life of the party. Always bringing a smile to the face of anyone around her. Her sense of humor was unmatched, including her signature farewell "Have a Merry Christmas"-no matter the time of year.

Mary loved children always making sure they were seen and heard, often getting on their level and playing with them. No matter the situation she would always interact with the children around, be it her grandkids, her great nieces and nephews, or a child she saw in a restaurant.

Mary's life was marked by compassion, sacrifice, and fun.

She is survived by her husband, Michael Rezac; her sons, Peter Rezac (Andreea) and Benjamin Rezac (Brigid); her granddaughter Izabella Rezac; and her siblings: Sharon of Sioux Falls, SD; Dick Burkey (Marlo) of Bremerton, WA; Dan Burkey (Patty) of Monroe, WA; and Sharlene "Chic" Pyper (David) of Sioux Falls, SD.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents, Stanley and Athea Burkey; her brother, Michael Burkey; her brother-in-law, Bill Smith; her granddaughter, Maxine Rezac; her nephew and godson, Stephen Smith; and her nephew, Andrew Pyper.

Funeral Service: 10:30 AM on July 3 at St. Edwards Catholic Church in Keizer, OR

Rosary: 10:00 AM prior to the service

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the building fund for the new parish community center at St. Edwards Catholic Church in Keizer, OR.