Mary L. Brezina, 81, Possessed Boundless Energy, Enthusiasm and Spirit

She was born in Lorain on February 23, 1944 and had been a longtime resident of the city prior to moving to Amherst in 1993.

Mary was a graduate of Lorain High School as a member of the Class of 1962. Shortly following her commencement, she joined the dietary services department at St. Joseph Hospital. She later transitioned into the role of a Human Resource Specialist there, embarking on a career that spanned forty-three years with both St. Joseph’s, and its successor, Lorain Community / Mercy Health Hospital. Mary also worked part time as a server at the American Slovak Club in Lorain, the Vermilion Boat Club, and the Aquamarine Resort in Avon Lake.

She was a longtime parishioner of Holy Trinity Church in Lorain where she served as a Eucharistic Minister. Following the church’s closure, she joined St. Joseph’s Parish in Amherst.

Mary was active as a member of the Amvets Post # 47 Auxiliary as well as a member of the American Slovak Club and St. Ann’s Lodge Branch # 114 of the First Slovak Catholic Union. In addition, she devoted many volunteer hours toward the fundraising efforts of the Golden Shield Motorcycle Club.

Mary possessed boundless energy, enthusiasm, and spirit coupled with an infectious smile that could light up any room. She was one of the warmest people you'd ever meet, always making you feel truly special. Her family and friends remained the focal point of her life and she cherished every moment that she was able to spend with them. She also cherished all the time she spent boating and socializing at Romp’s Marina in Vermilion.

Survivors include her nephew Thomas “My Tommy” Brezina and his wife Chrissy (nee Claus) of Amherst, great nephew Tyler Brezina and great niece Gabrielle “Gabi” Brezina. Mary also leaves numerous cousins.

She was preceded in death by her father Michael Brezina in 1996, mother Margaret Brezina (nee Onderick) in 1998, and brother Richard “Dick” Brezina in 2011.

Mary’s family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude and appreciation to Ms. Ashley Oates and her entire staff at the 1907 At Central School along with all of the people at Sprenger Enterprises for the loving care and compassion that they provided to Mary during her time with them.

Visitation will be Friday April 4th from 4:00 until 6:00 p.m. in the Gluvna-Shimo-Hromada Funeral Chapel – 3224 Broadway, Lorain. Funeral services will be Saturday April 5th beginning with closing prayers offered in the funeral chapel at 8:45 a.m. Mary’s Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 9:30 a.m. in St. Joseph Catholic Church – 200 St. Joseph Drive, Amherst. Reverend Timothy J. O’Connor, Pastor of the church will officiate. Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations in Mary’s memory to WellSpring Hospice – 3905 Oberlin Avenue, Lorain, OH 44053.