Mary Agnes Zuza

Mary Zuza, Testament to a Life Well Lived

Mary Zuza lived a full life of 99 years, filled with dignity, devotion, generosity, compassion, and Godly love.

She cared and nurtured a family of six children born over a span of two decades. Mary was an amazing cook, created out-of-this-world pastries, and sewed countless clothes and Halloween costumes for her kids and grandkids. Despite a meager wage earned by my father in the steel mill, she managed the household budget more expertly than a trained accountant and her family never lacked for food or clothing. We all benefited from her generosity in helping us get houses, cars, and educations.

Mary loved to garden. I fondly remember summer afternoons when she peeled apples and made scrumptious sauce and pies. She loved, loved, LOVED babies and small children. She didn't care much for pets, but did enjoy the company of my family's black Lab. She was ready to make a meal for any of us when returning home, regardless of the time of day. And she always made us a birthday cake from scratch and hand decorated them in icing with our name, birthday greeting, and flowers or fringe.

Mary tenderly cared for us through our childhoods. She learned how to drive a car so she could visit me when I was in the hospital at two years of age (which was over 20 miles away). She faithfully drove me to get allergy shots twice a week for years. And she always, ALWAYS, reminded us to be careful. She gave us three blessings on our foreheads when we left home after visiting, saying God bless you, I bless you, and here's an extra blessing.

Mary loved her polkas. She made an incredible array of Slovak foods including halupki (stuffed cabbage), halushki (potato dumplings), and pierogi. She always surprised me by knowing how the Steelers or Penn State were doing in football, or how the Penguins were doing in hockey.

Farewell, my sweet and caring Mother, and dear soul. You have blessed many along the way. I love you, Mom.

David

Dear Jack and and Cathy,
Hi my name is Loretta Pusateri. I live in Franklin Park.
I purchased 2 Hoosiers from you and you and your son delivered them to my house.
My sympathy on the passing of your mom. If I recall she was on the top floor during my visit and I know you lovingly gave her the best of care. She is now reunited with her grandson Patrick.
I’m so sorry.
Loretta
412-874-9484