Margaret Mary Wasilewski, 82, of Loyalsock, passed away peacefully at Valley View on January 28 while surrounded by family. Margaret Mary was born on May 24, 1941, in Shamokin, PA, daughter of the late Gerald and Bertha Quinn.
Margaret Mary’s legacy will forever be imprinted on the hearts and minds of those she touched. She will always be fondly remembered by family and friends for her unending generosity, creativity, and zaniness – the stuff of legend. Whether it was her 16-foot-tall Christmas tree made entirely of balloons, her one-of-a kind, award-winning Hamburger Helping Hand Halloween costume, or the dozens of “Paris Original” dresses she sewed for a high school musical…her creativity knew no bounds.
She was a master seamstress who worked around the clock to create costumes for Halloween, special events, and theatrical productions. She had an extensive love for theatre and the arts. When she wasn’t making the costumes for a show, she was performing in one, producing, or in the audience watching.
Margaret Mary was the hostess with the mostess. Holidays were always over-the-top. This included ringing in the New Year with her “Golden Slippers” & Philly Mummers’ Strut. Presidents’ Day, always celebrated with twin cherry lollipops. Halloween, with the best candy on the block – custom over-stuffed treat bags. Christmas always started on December 5 (St. Nicholas Day), when she filled her family’s shoes with gifts. And there’s no describing St. Patrick’s Day. Her creative spirit and flair for the ridiculous manifested in everything she did…sewing, crafting, gift wrapping, baking, entertaining, and so much more.
Margaret Mary’s passion extended well beyond her talents as an artist and homemaker. She was President of the Lycoming County Medical Society Auxiliary, an influential member of the PTA, and a favorite 4-H project volunteer. She always gave a damn…caring profoundly about making a difference whenever she could. Always cutting through the BS, advocating, and supporting others. A real-life fairy godmother.
She is survived by her loving and devoted husband of 61 years, Dr. Charles L. Wasilewski, her children: Audrey Wasilewski (Lyle Kanouse), Jane Wasilewski, and Ellen (Mark) Marvi, grandchildren Alexander and Dilahn, and her sister Patricia Shaneman. She will always be the outrageous “Aunt Mimi.”
The immediate family will be celebrating her life in private, in lieu of a service. Margaret Mary had a soft spot for those in need, especially animals of all kinds. So, instead of flowers, the family respectfully suggests memorial contributions may be made in her honor to Lycoming County SPCA.
Arrangements have been entrusted to McCarty~Thomas Funeral Home, Montoursville.
Expressions of sympathy may be sent to the family at http://www.mccartythomas.com.
