A few observations from her son, with love:

Mom was a woman of great faith. Her first response to any problem someone had was always, "I will pray for you."  She would continue to do so until the crisis resolved.  She never forgot her friends and family in her daily prayers - she would even run lists of people for whom she would pray. She was very religious - when her health no longer permitted her to attend mass in person, she watched it on television.  She was also a huge fan of Mother Angelica. No joke, I think mom had about 100 rosaries.  We continue to find them everywhere. 

People have always told me that my mother was the "sweetest person" or "one of [their] favorites."  She was kind, approachable and always lent an ear to whatever was troubling you.  Most of all, she genuinely cared. In a cold and callous world, that's a rare thing. It didn't matter if you were her brother, son, grandchild, nephew, neighbor, yardman or nurse - everyone got equal attention.   She NEVER (and I mean NEVER) forgot someone's birthday, anniversary or a holiday. Many, many people have told me over the years how mom always remembered to send them cards and a gift each year on special occasions.  She wanted people to feel special. That was her nature. 

She and dad taught me so very much about the type of marriage that people should have.  They were married 52 years - they had dated for several years prior to their marriage, so the overall relationship was even longer than the marriage.  They were completely devoted to one another and always openly told each other about their love.  Both enjoyed being a part of marriage encounter through the church.  If I learned anything from my parents, it was to love, respect and support your spouse unconditionally.  I've found that lesson works. 

For a woman of mom's generation, she had some unusual interests. She loved watching Gator football.  She was a NASCAR fan, probably because she grew up in Daytona and watched the racing industry develop.  It she wasn't watching Mother Angelica, she most likely was watching NASCAR. 

She had some faults - who doesn't?  Her big one was that mom ran late for everything. It drove dad and me nuts.  He even tried turning the clocks ahead by 15-30 minutes to get her places on time.  That worked briefly, but once she caught on, she went right back to her old habits.  We were late to doctor appointments, school meetings, dinners, movies, hair dressers, church, you name it.  I remember one vacation where we left 6 hours after dad had planned to because mom never had packed. We used to joke with her that we would one day hold the casket at her funeral mass outside the church until about 15-20 minutes into the service before rushing it inside.  After all, her trademark was being late.  

Her tardiness aside, Mom typified many of the things that God calls upon us to exhibit as Christians. She loved those around her; she cared about them and comforted them; she gave of herself to brighten their worlds; she was devoted and faithful to her spouse; she loved God and supported His church.  I have no doubt that she is in heaven, though I am willing to bet that she will run late for events there too. Hopefully, God has a sense of humor. 

I miss you, mom, and I love you -- always. 

Rob

We send our sympathy to you Rob and all your family. It is sad to lose both parents so close together. For them, though, it seems to be a blessing. They did not have to be apart for a long time. Cherish your family and your memories. We send our love, prayers, and thoughts of you and memories of good times with Mary & Bob. Karen & Jim Albright

 Know that you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.

As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends. Along with that, may you find comfort in God

OBITUARY

Mary I Bodnar

15 December, 1929 – 9 October, 2017

Volusia Memorial Funeral Home & Park

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