Mary F. Botnovcan

In loving memory of Mary Botnovcan… Mary Francis Botnovcan, 86, went home to heaven, passing peacefully with her loving family by her side on March 29, 2025. The oldest of three children, Mary was born on August 18, 1938, to Steve and Mildred Botnovcan (nee Vician) in Gary, Indiana. Proceeded in death by her brother Steve Botnovcan. Survived by beloved sister Marjorie Woldt (Walter H.); proud aunt to Walter S. Woldt, Jennifer Woldt, Katherine (Tom) Manetas, Gary Botnovcan, Sharon (Marc Howard) Botnovcan, Pamela (George) Behmke; dear great aunt of Hallie Botnovcan, Alex Howard, Madeline Howard, Nicole Howard, Heather Behmke, Jacqueline Woldt, Angela Woldt, Markus Kivisikk, Annika Kivisikk, Nikolaos Manetas, Dean Manetas, and Violetta Manetas. Mary was a proud Hoosier. She spent her early childhood in Gary before moving to Merrillville, then living in Schererville, before becoming a Floridian in Lady Lake in the Villages in 1993. Mary was a kind and considerate neighbor to all. From an early age, Mary was intellectually curious, loved reading, and ongoing learning. Mary graduated from Horace Mann High School in 1956 and next attended college at Valparaiso University graduating with a Bachelor’s degree in Education. She later earned her Master’s degree in Education from Roosevelt University in Chicago. In her 35-year career, she first taught at John H. Vohr and Riley Elementary Schools, then finished her teaching profession at Bailey Middle School all in Gary. Mary was a dedicated and caring colleague and educator. One of Mary’s passions was traveling. During summer breaks from school, Mary traveled extensively throughout the US and abroad. She was an avid photographer, capturing beautiful images of these destinations. She experienced history, art, architecture, cuisine and her favorite, music. Mary’s pleasure of music extended to her participation Sweet Adelines, both in Indiana and Florida. Mary built close bonds within this barbershop music community. She delighted in listening to live concerts and shows, appreciating live performances. Later, when she faced mobility challenges and could not travel, Mary took up hobbies, including playing bridge, Mexican Train Dominoes, and jigsaw puzzles. Over the years, the trips, clubs, and activities gave Mary a chance to connect with others and build lifelong friendships. Mary was a devoted and cherished friend. Mary’s greatest love, by far, was her family. She was the piece that bound us together, sharing updates and pictures, celebrating milestones. Mary’s love was shown through happy phone calls, thoughtful care packages, and heartfelt cards for all occasions or just because! She had a unique ability to make each family member feel special, turning simple visits into precious memories. Her warm hugs, words of encouragement, and quiet strength served as a constant source of comfort and unity. Mary was a beloved daughter and sister, treasured aunt and godmother, and a dearly loved great aunt. She was the heart and soul of our family. Mary spread boundless joy far beyond our immediate family. Her selfless nature touched many. Mary’s sunny personality and positive outlook were contagious and a source of inspiration. Mary anticipated the needs of others and could always be counted on for support. Year over year her generosity was demonstrated through giving to 30+ charities. Mary was a true philanthropist and humanitarian. Above all, Mary was a devout member of the Catholic Church whose faith guided her through every chapter of her life. Her unwavering belief in God and her commitment to living a life of service and love was evident and a blessing to all who knew her. She was an active member of St. Timothy’s Catholic Church where she was known for her warm smile and compassionate spirit. Her dedication to the church was seen in the way she lived – always putting others above herself and spreading kindness wherever she went. Mary was an angel here on earth and is now an angel with her Lord up above. The family will receive friends for visitation at Beyers Funeral Home, 134 North Highway 441, Lady Lake, Florida, on April 3, 2025, from 1:00p to 3:00p. A memorial mass will be held in honor of Mary's life on April 4, 2025, at 8:30a at St. Timothy’s Catholic Church, 1351 Page Place, Lady Lake, Florida. In lieu of flowers, Mary's family requests that contributions be made in her memory to St. Timothy's Catholic Church or Autism Speaks. Mary’s legacy of love, faith, and philanthropy were gifts to all who knew her. As we celebrate her inspiring life, we find solace in the knowledge that she is now at peace in the loving arms of her Savior, reunited with loved ones who have gone before her. May her soul rest in eternal peace and her memory live on in our hearts, always.

Mary F. Botnovcan

August 18, 1938 - March 29, 2025