Mary and I were roommates in Cambridge then Belmont, MA a long time ago. I was in my 20s (now I’m 64) and she six years older. We were good friends too and did a lot of fun things together. We learned a lot from each other too, she being from an Asian culture and me from an Italian one. My Christmas card from last year was returned and recently I looked up a new address for her on the internet, but instead I found her obituary. I could not stop my instant tears, I am so saddened by her early death and am anguished about not keeping in touch with her. She was spunky, full of zest, generous, and I will never forget her. I don’t know the reason for her death, but I hope she didn’t suffer. Mary was a real people person. Beautiful inside and out.

I had known Mary for many years and only now learned of her passing. She was a warm, wonderful soul whose perseverance, unassuming nature and kindness always amazed and inspired me. 
Mary will always have a special place in my heart and I shall miss her.

I was traveling until the day Mary passed away, and just learned of her death. I am very sad. We were neighbors for over 20 years, and Mary was always cheerful and kind. I always heard her coming and going, and knew I hadn’t heard her recently. I thought perhaps she was traveling. My deepest sympathies to her family and friends. Rosemary Sullivan 

Our Aunt Mary (Gu-ma) was truly one of a kind — extremely kind and always giving. Food was her love language. At every family gathering she cooked from the heart, showing us her love through hand-made Vietnamese spring rolls, cinnamon apple cakes, and pecan pies. During the pandemic she communicated her love by cooking and dropping off our favorite meals every Sunday afternoon, rain or shine. She cared so much about us; even when we were social distancing, she’d talk to us through the window and ask us how our lives were, how is work, etc. She taught us so many life lessons and continues to serve as an inspiring role model who would encourage us to always treat others with kindness, to be generous, to be grateful for our friends and family, and to enjoy life to the fullest. Aunt Mary was like an angel; her presence alone gave, bringing so much joy and light to everyone around her. Her positive, warm energy, and contagious smile made every holiday, every vacation, every interaction so memorable. We want to thank her for all of her warmth, wisdom, and most importantly, her unconditional love. We will miss her dearly. Rest in peace, Aunt Mary.

Our Aunt Mary loved us as if we were her own children. She was always so supportive of us and involved in our lives. When we were kids growing up, she used to visit us every Saturday afternoon to bring us a home cooked lunch for all of us to enjoy together. She would call us the night before to ask us what our favorite meals were and would wake up early the next morning to go grocery shopping and cook a meal we would all enjoy, whether that be sushi, lasagna, or wontons. She always wanted to make us happy and we’re forever grateful for this.

There were also many days when she would pop by our house to say hello because she was in the area or because she found one of our favorite treats in a store and wanted to drop it off at our door because she was thinking of us. She radiated positivity and constantly lived by the sentiment that even the smallest gestures and words would have a lasting positive impact on others. She instilled the value in us from a young age that we should always show and voice our appreciation to not only the ones we love, but also to strangers. She always encouraged us to be positive and to make people feel appreciated, and we are better people because of her. 

Although our Aunt Mary is no longer with us, we feel so grateful that we were loved by her and that we loved her. Our lives are better having known her positivity, kindness, and thoughtfulness. We’ll miss her dearly, but will continue to hold onto all our fond memories of her closely.

I met Mary years ago via a long forgotten social club,  She was always a delight to talk to.  She was ever adaptable and up to a challenge.  I remember the surprise I felt when she had her coffee shop.  Sadly I never was able to stop by.  I admired her ingenuity in figuring out her cook's secret chowder recipe when she noticed how much butter and other ingredients being ordered.  I'll always remember her quick smile,  twinkle in her eye and inquisitive nature.

What a memory that we have when Mary and her Mom went with us to Grand Canyon Skywalk after Leslie and Warren's wedding in California in 2012. 
What a memory that we have , always chatted with Mary for hours over phone  talking about our families, our profession as a pharmacist, cooking, traveling,  sharing jokes, and many more.  She was a good communicator.  She loved and cared for people. She was one of our best friends. 
May God's peace and comfort with you all. May the Holy Spirit inspire you to understand His salvation.  Ephesians 2:8 For by grace you have been saved through faith, And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God. (Grace -God's Redemption At Christ's Expense.)
Psalm 23
The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. 
He makes me lie down in green pastures. 
He leads me beside still waters.
He restores my soul, 
He leads me in paths of righteouness for his names's sake.
Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.



Mary is such a lovely lady. Always there to help and encourage you through the day. She will be missed. 

OBITUARY

Mary Kar-Mi Chan

February 10, 1954 – April 18, 2022

Deware Funeral Home

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