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Mary Suchomel Obituary
Naples, FL
Mary Anne Suchomel of Naples, passed away Friday, March 8, 2013 at the age of 64, surrounded by her beloved family after a courageous battle with cancer.
The focus of Mary's life was her family and friends along with the young children she taught for many years. She will be remembered as a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and friend by all that knew her. We all hope to match her smile, strength, grace and love of family.
Born Mary Anne Moore on December 11, 1948 in Tipton, IA she graduated from Tipton High School and attended the University of Iowa receiving a degree in elementary education. Mary and her husband, James, moved to Naples in 1973. For the next 34 years, all of those at Shadowlawn Elementary School, she taught and molded the lives of her 2nd grade students. Retiring in 2007 she left behind a legacy of professionalism, integrity, dedication and genuine concern for her students and fellow teachers and staff members of her Shadowlawn family.
Always having a smile and a kindness to all, she loved to travel but especially valued the time spent with family and friends. Mary had a gift of making people feel better in times of joy or sorrow in their lives, through the thoughts and words expressed in the many cards and notes she sent to so many people. She enriched the lives of all of us who knew and loved her.
She is survived by her high school sweetheart and husband of 42 years James; her son, Ian and wife Jennifer; grandchildren, Emma and Charlie; father, James Moore; sister, Colleen (Moore) Wilson and husband Ralph; nieces, nephews and their families along with other loved family members.
She was preceded in death by her mother, Lucille; sister, Linda; brother, Richard; stepmother, Phyllis.
Visitation will be held Friday, March 15, 2013 from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at First United Methodist Church, 388 First Avenue South in Naples followed by a celebration of Mary's life at 11:00 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a memorial contribution be made to a school or charity of your choice, Avow Hospice of Naples.
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Memories and Condolences
for Mary Suchomel
Roxanne
March 5, 2025
Dear Mary,
It's been 12 years since you left us. I've reread the notes to you and your family at the time of your passing, reaffirming the amazing legacy you left here on this earth. To Jim and all your family, my heart is with you at this anniversary of Mary's passing. Her light is still shining brightly as she lives in the Light. Mary, until we meet again...Love, Roxanne
Alison Golian
March 5, 2025
Still think of you LOTS! Miss you, love you!
Alison
March 5, 2023
I still think of our Mary VERY often. Whenever I see a pig (she loved her pigs!). Whenever I see her beautiful grandchildren accomplishing wonderful things (shared often via Facebook). Whenever I need some teacher inspiration. We miss and love our Mary!
Chris Williams
March 25, 2013
Ian and family,
I am so sorry for your loss. I know it has been many years, but I am thankful I had the chance to spend a summer in Naples with your family. Your mother was an amazing person who welcomed me like I was family. Many prayers to you all for your loss.
March 19, 2013
Where do you begin when remembering Mary? I first met Mary in 1974 as I was taking my daughter Beth to her second grade class, as Mary and I talked, I knew Beth was in the best class and she would have so much fun with Mrs. Suchomel, then in 1985 I put my son Brian in her class and we all had a great school year. I started working at SLE in 1987 and renewed my friendship with Mary and soon learned that she was exactly the way that people described her, but they did not tell me that she had a wicked sense of humor regarding birthday cards she sent. I will treasure those times with her and our SLE family forever. My thoughts and prayers are with Jim, Ian and their families. Till we meet again my dear friend of 39 years, I will miss you!
Love...Chris Hoyt
Janet Norman
March 18, 2013
I met Mary when I became her intern 16 years ago at Shadowlawn in 2nd grade. She made me want to be the best teacher I could be. Now 15 years later teaching in Collier County I get to have interns and give back the same way she inspired me. She always smiled, had a kind word for everything, and had a positive outlook about life. I will treasure her memory in my heart forever. I'm so sad we were out of town and I didn't get to say good bye in person. She will be forever missed. My prayers are with her family during this most difficult time.
Kyra Gilkison
March 17, 2013
You were the best aunt, most caring person, and wonderful letter writer I have ever known. How is it possible that you were NEVER late for one birthday? Ever.
My memories of our trips to Florida will forever be with me. Thanks for teaching me to run zig-zag away from an alligator, and how to crack open a coconut.
We are so sad to say goodbye to you. Ian & Jenny will forever be like a sister and brother to us, and Emma & Charlie will forever be reminded of their loving grandmother.
Annie Ahlquist
March 17, 2013
Mrs. Suchomel was one of the best teachers that was ever at Shadowlawn. I am certain that she was one of the reasons I, myself became a teacher. I am so deeply saddened by the loss of such a lovely person.
To the Suchomel Family, may God be with you as you mourn the loss of an amazing wife, mother, grandmother and friend.
March 15, 2013
Jim, Ian and family,
I am so saddened by your loss. I will always remember Mary for her gentle ways with her little students, her friendly smile and cute wave at the ball field or swim meets. She had such a way about her that we all loved. May you find peace in your heart with your loving memories of her as a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother and friend. We all have lost an amazing women.
Sandy Hogan
Maria Mazorra
March 15, 2013
You left us too soon, Mary. I'm sure God and His angels needed someone with your caring, loving spirit. I will think of you often and will never forget you. Maria
Teresa Darr, RN
March 15, 2013
Jim and family, I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I always loved talking to Mary. She was such a giving person.
Dodie Pajer
March 15, 2013
Jim, Ian, Jenny, Emma, and Charlie: Mary knew how to make people feel loved, welcomed, valued and important. When I think of her, I remember all of the laughs we had at Breakfast Bunch and Lunch Bunch. My sincere condolences to you as you mourn your loss.
Roxanne Howe-Murphy
March 14, 2013
Dear Sweet Mary, As I've read and re-read all of the memories and gratitudes overflowing with love for you, it is abundantly clear that you have always shared your great gift in simply Being You! Your kindness, compassion, generosity of spirit, humor and caring were there when we were young....and that's what everyone saw in you throughout your life. What a testament to your amazing spirit and soul. You provided a kind of 'glue'--helping people come together, feel at ease, and find their special place in life. You have impacted more people than you can know. I feel so blessed that you were in my life.
Jim, Colleen, Ian, your children and your whole extended family are in my heart at this time of immeasurable grief. Words are insufficient, but know that you have a great web of caring and love supporting you. You can call upon it in your darkest hours. You are all in my prayers.
March 14, 2013
I guess God needed a top-notch Angel. He certainly got the BEST ! Rest in peace, my friend. Love, Judy Lee
Carmen Kaouk
March 13, 2013
She was the one we all requested..every parent wanted Mary Suchomel to teach their child. Mary was such a positive,kind and genuine person. She loved her students and everyone loved her. She touched my life as a teacher, friend and co-worker. She will be missed by all of us. She loved her family so much and was so happy to be a grandma. May God keep you and give you strength.
Tim Ferguson
March 13, 2013
All of us that had the great fortune to know Mary feel so blessed to have had her in our lives. Mary has touched the lives of so many children, families, colleagues, friends and family. Her spirit will forever live in our hearts. Thank-you Mary for sharing yourself with us all.
March 13, 2013
Thinking of Coach Suchomel and his family at this sad time. His wife was a saint for putting up with all of us over the years. Love, the Lely High School Girls Golf Teams (80's-90's)
Suzanne Pepple
March 13, 2013
Mary, I loved seeing you at yoga. Always a happy positive attitude. You will be missed by many at NCH.
Sharon Wheeler
March 13, 2013
I am deeply sadden by the loss of such a beautiful person inside and out. Mary Suchomel was the kind of person that God has called all of us to be; loving, kind, compassionate,caring and humble. I was part of that great Shadowlawn Elementary family and Mrs. Suchomel was one of those people who made it so great. She was not a good teacher, she was a GREAT teacher. She was all of my children's second grade teacher and they loved her so much. Even today, they talked about her and her love of pigs. God says, "Blessed are they that mourn, for they shall be comforted." I know that God will comfort Mary's husband, son and grandchildren and I know that I am comforted in knowing that she is at rest and her body has been healed. You were simply the best Mrs. Suchomel.
Lauren Burnette
March 12, 2013
My heart is so heavy right now, as I've just heard the news. Mary was a great teacher, co-worker, and friend! She was such a dedicated wife, mother, and teacher. Our children went to Shadowlawn and graduated together. One of my favorite pictures is from the night Ian and Kelly graduated. She and I met in the hallway in the midst of the crowd and had her husband Jim take our photo. Always beautiful and kind. My years working at SLE were spent working closely with Mary. She hosted my baby shower for Mike at her home. She was one of my AMC girls! Jim, Ian, and family my prayers are with you now. I will always feel privileged to have known Mary. God bless you all.
Denni Kann
March 12, 2013
Oh Mary, despite your passion for Tipton Bakery goods, you were the purest person (discounting the pinball machines!) I've ever known. Follow the light, dear friend, and we'll meet again someday on the other side. Our love goes with you and your love lives on... I just wish we could've given you a hug in person to see you off on your next journey. All Our Love and Hugs Forever, Denni and Peter
Mary and Jim at our 40th THS Reunion (2007)
Dennifer Kann
March 12, 2013
I'm looking at Mary's obituary and trying to accept that it's real. Although we didn't get to see each other as often as we would've liked, we've always been kindred spirits and the best of friends since our single digit ages… so it's very difficult to comprehend that she's moved on way too soon. Knowing how I (as a grade school onward friend) feel now that she's passed over, I can only imagine how you (Jim; Ian and Jenny, Emma and Charlie; Colleen and Phyllis and families; Jim Moore and Norie Suchomel and extended family) are feeling. Our hearts ache for you loss, and our love and prayers are with all of you.
The reasonable side of me says that we've all been so blessed to have had Mary in our lives all these years… and we're also blessed with all the wonderful memories she's left with us… all these wonderful memories to cherish of this special women whose every breath made our world a better place. However, the emotional side of me is having trouble saying goodbye for this lifetime… Mary's life has been an inspiration to us all to live a good life so we'll be able to meet her again on a higher level when it's our time. In the meantime, we'll miss her terribly and we send our love and prayers to all of you who loved and were loved by Mary. Rest in peace Mare, dear friend, and you know me, I'll be watching for you! Our love and profound condolences to all of Mary's friends and family,
Denni and Peter Kann and Family
Keith Lamp
March 12, 2013
So sorry Jim. Mary Anne was a very warm and cheerful person.
Judy Tuff
March 12, 2013
Mary's friendship was a gift and blessing for me!
Jeff Klein
March 12, 2013
What a wonderful and caring person. Although not here in the physical sense her legacy will live on in the many lives that she toucher with her kind and gentle way.
Debbie, Jason and Neil Travis
March 12, 2013
We want to extend our deepest sympathies to the Suchomel family. We will never forget all the Lely baseball games and the great times that we shared. The loss of a spouse or parent cannot be expressed in words, but know that we have been in the same shoes and know the deep sorrow and ache that you feel.
Sheryl Creighton
March 12, 2013
Words seem so inadequate at a time like this...I feel truely blessed to have known Mary and our SLE family for over 30 years. My heartfelt sympathies go out to her family and all who knew and loved her.She fought her illness with courage and dignity...and now she has found peace. Miss you girl! With love and many fond memories, Sheryl
Ann Morrell
March 12, 2013
I remember the first day Mary walked into Shadowlawn, she looked like a highschool student with that long straight hair...in fact it was hard to believe she was even old enough to be a teacher. We became friends, and the more I got to know her, the more I fell in love with her sense of humor, her kindness, her love of her students and her love of her husband Jim. She was one of the most thoughtful people I have ever met. She was always there for everyone no matter what.
When Mary became pregnant with Ian, we all took joy in her happiness. In the "little building" at Shawowlawn. The first day she wore maternity clothes we all lined the hall to greet her, she glowed with happiness. She was meant to be a mom.
Mary's spirit and her strength amazed me as she fought her cancer. She had so much she wanted to live for...her husband, her son, and her two grand kids. If anyone deserves to be an angel in heaven it is Mary. She will be missed, but not forgotten as she left her mark on all of us who knew her and loved her. We were all blessed that Mary passed through our lives.
My love goes out to Jim and Ian's family.
Rebecca Adams
March 11, 2013
I am so grateful to have known Mary as a parent, colleague and friend. I can picture her in heaven catching up with old friends and making sure everyone's comfortable. May God keep his loving arms around Mary's family and give them comfort, strength and courage.
Judy & Steve Alander
March 11, 2013
Dear James, Ian, Jennifer, Emma and Charlie - deepest sympathies to entire family - death leaves a heartache no one can heal while love leaves memories no one can steal......you are in our thoughts and prayers
Barbara Keltner
March 11, 2013
My deepest sympathy to Mary's family. She was such a dedicated and caring teacher and person. Mary touched so many lives in a sweet, warm, and kind way. I feel so very fortunate to have known her.
Marybeth Thomas
March 11, 2013
I first met Mary when I started teaching at Shadowlawn in 1983. I will always remember her beautiful smile and spirit and the way she touched all of our lives. My thoughts and prayers are with Jim and her family. May you be warmed by the beautiful memories of this wonderful woman.
March 11, 2013
I believe Roxanne summed this up when she said "Beautiful Mary Anne" and that she was outside and inside, such a beautiful smile and she will be missed, our hearts go out to Jim, Ian, Colleen and the extended family. May God give you the strength to get thru your loss, remember you have the "class of 67" sending their support, prayers and tears to you.
THS class of "67"
March 11, 2013
My deepest sympathy over your loss. Our thoughts are with you through these difficult days. I wish you some peace in the coming days. Sincerely, Joanne (Cooke) and Jim Cooper.
Audrey Tezyk
March 11, 2013
We are fortunate to have been in the extended family of those whose lucky child was one of Mary's students. She was a dedicated, wonderful and inspiring teacher and woman. I was also lucky enough to work first with Mary at Shadowlawn, then with Jim at Lely H.S. Our sincere sympathy to the whole Suchomel family. Your loss touches us all.
Debbie Kohl
March 11, 2013
My deepest condolences to Mary's family. I first met Mary when I joined the Shadowlawn staff in 1986. Since then I have always been impressed with her sweet loving spirit, her optimistic attitude, her very obvious concern for her colleagues, students, and family. She made it so very easy to be her friend. Even after her retirement, I always looked forward to seeing Mary in our monthly get-togethers where Mary was always fun and optimistic, even to the last time. She always talked with such pride of her Ian and her grandchildren, Emma and Charlie. She will be greatly missed by many.
Carol Brock
March 11, 2013
When I started working at SLE I met Mary and she was always there to help me whenever I needed her. She was such a positive person and always had a smile and love in her heart for all that she came in contact with. I really looked up to Mary and enjoyed sharing and talking to her ever day. All of her students loved her and she was a wonderful teacher. She really enjoyed teaching and you could always tell this. I remember her walking her students to the bus every day and she always had her arm around one of them as she walked them to the bus. Along the way she also was talking with them and gave them a hug before boarding the bus.
I will miss Mary but I will always remember her as a very caring and loving person. I always told her that she had her angel wings!! Now she is with the angels and at peace.
God Bless you Mary with love.
Chris Cromer
March 11, 2013
Jennifer: So sorry to read about your loss. My thoughts are with you.
Laurie Pozo
March 11, 2013
I had the great honor and fortune to have worked with Mary at Shadowlawn Elementary. She had the unique quality of making everyone she met feel as though they were important and mattered. The number of people and students who were impacted by her generous, gentle soul is a beautiful legacy. My prayers are with her family at this difficult time. I know Mary will be with them always. Fondly, Laurie Pozo
Michele Ackerberg-Wonicker
March 11, 2013
I was so fortunate to have joined the Shadowlawn family in 1992, where Mary was a caring, dedicated teacher and role-model to many of us. Mary had a huge heart and was always positive and supportive. Jim and family, please know that I feel fortunate to call Mary my friend and know there are many, many people sharing in your loss. My prayers are with you.
Laurie Pozo
March 11, 2013
I feel honored and fortunate to have met and worked with Mary at Shadowlawn Elementary. She had the most unique quality of making everyone she encountered feel as though they mattered and were special. The number of lives touched by her generous, gentle soul is immeasurable and a beautiful legacy that will live on forever. She adored her family and will always be watching over them, I'm sure. My prayers are with them at this difficult, challenging time. With great fondness, Laurie Pozo.
March 11, 2013
Please accept my heartfelt sympathy.
Marybeth Hamlin
Valerie Walters
March 11, 2013
Dear Jim, I am so sorry that you have lost your beloved wife. Please accept my deepest sympathies. I wish sincerely that you can find some peace in memories of the happy life that you shared. Hugs, Valerie
Alison Golian
March 11, 2013
Our dear, sweet Mary is gone. She was so very beautiful and strong. She was my Florida mom and I will miss her so. Rest in peace, my wonderful friend!
Lorraine Franz
March 11, 2013
Mary was so very special.As a school volunteer I loved working with her.Always so kind and helpful to me.I think of her so often and am saddened by losing a wonderful teacher and person.The little candle she gave to me years ago means so much to me.It will always bring warm thoughts of a very special person.
March 11, 2013
You certainly captured Mary in the obituary, I had already said many of those things about her to friends. I will miss her but am comforted that she is with her big brother.
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