Mary Ann Gatica

Mary Ann Gatica was the 12th of 13 children born to Maria Gatica-Zapata and Antonio Rodriguez Gatica. She was born on July 23rd, 1962 in Flint, MI, and passed away the morning of Tuesday, January 16th, 2024. She is survived by her sister Angie (Alberto) Vasquez, and brothers Tony (Marylou), Victor

(Lydia), Alfredo (Elaine), John (Lynette), Migel (Kathy) Gatica. Many nephews and nieces, aunts and uncles, and loving friends. Mary Ann is preceded in death by her parents Maria and Antonio, brothers, Martin, Manuel, Elias, Daniel, and sisters Eva and Marianita. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to North Flushing Baptist Church.

While Mary Ann’s degree and early career was supply chain management, she later discovered her heart was in the caring of others. That became especially apparent to her as she cared for her mother, Maria, for many years before Maria passed. Mary Ann forged deep connections and provided excellent care for many patients in her later years.

Though she did not have children of her own, Mary Ann was a vibrant and beloved part of her many nieces and nephew’s lives. Her love for her family was an integral part of her life. She could always be found in the kitchen, cleaning, cooking, or helping teach the next generation family recipes. Her comforting arms soothed many a crying baby, her firm voice corrected many mischievous children, and her beaming smile was an uplifting sight to her family. Throughout the years Mary could often be found playing softball and Euchre, sharing favorite movies, collecting Snoopy memorabilia, or snuggling with her beloved kitties.

Mary Ann deeply loved her church and the community, friends, and family she found there. They were such an important part of her life, and she took pride in inviting others to experience that love there with her. Her trust in Jesus shaped her, and her life was a quiet testament to her inner faith.

Her quick and hearty laugh along with her kind spirit touched everyone who met her, and people quickly felt she was a fast friend, from her librarian to her hairdresser. One hundred years would not have been enough time with Mary Ann, but her family and friends are forever grateful for the impact she had on their lives.

A memorial visitation for Mary will be held Thursday, February 1, 2024 from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Reigle Funeral Home, 5501 W. Pierson Road, Flushing, Michigan 48433. A visitation prior to funeral service will occur Friday, February 2, 2024 at 10:00 AM with service following at 11:00 am at North Flushing Baptist Church, 7500 Mount Morris Rd, Flushing, MI 48433.