Mary Lou Hushak-Gates OBITUARY

Mary Lou Mandile-Hushak-Gates 88, June 17, 1936 – June 21, 2024

Jesus came and led Mary Lou to spend eternity with Our Most High, Almighty Father on Friday, June 21, 2024. She passed on fully knowing just how much she was loved and appreciated-not only by her three children; Eugene (Gene) Anthony Hushak Jr. of Auburn, WA, Sally Hushak of Plainville, CT, Kim Hushak of Phoenix, AZ – but also the many, many friends and family whose lives she’d touched throughout her life. She was pre-deceased by her beloved parents, Salvatore & Jennie Mandile and her sister, Anna Mandile-Geraci all of Wethersfield, CT.

Despite the hardship of raising 3 children alone, while working multiple jobs, she always managed to find time to not only provide them with whatever she could; And, with the

absolute, best care she could offer. She selflessly gave continually to those she knew and also those she did not – many times sacrificing her own needs for those of others. It’s who she was. She didn’t boast, rarely complained and found joy in hopes of making someone else’s life a lil better, a lil easier.

Affectionately known as “Ma” to all the friends we grew up with; she welcomed EVERYONE with open arms, kind words and advice. It didn’t matter where she was; she’d always hear that endearing Maaaaa!!! Causing a beaming smile and a loving hug to whomever called out to her. Her quick wit and sense of humor was priceless and infectious. She could have you doubled over laughing with just a look or silly gesture. Laughing til your cheek muscles hurt and with tears streaming down your face was one of her/our most favorite things. We laughed often!! Even when she was dealt one of many bad hands, she managed to turn any frown upside down – yet still handle the situation the best she could and with utmost dignity.

She was a firm believer in Jesus Christ, attending church daily as well as serving on the alter, reading scripture and chosen to do many readings for the Televised Mass in Waterbury. She worked for many years as an Executive Legal Secretary for Aetna Life & Casualty in Hartford. She always completed the newspaper Crossword Puzzle each day along with many other crossword puzzle books – the harder the better! She was one smart lady!! (Well, except for the fact she enjoyed trips to the casino, albeit, losing her shirt on the slots most every time, then laughing when I’d tell her, “it’s ok momma, I brought two”). She LOVED listening to Frank Sinatra as well as others from the Rat Pack. She ADORED Judy Garland’s version of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” to which even on her last day, brought the biggest, brightest smile to her face with wide sparkling eyes. She was One of a Kind. She was an Excellent Mom and Friend. She will be in our hearts FOREVER. And mostly, She Will be Missed.

Rest Momma, rest… you’ve earned it.

A service for Mary Lou will be held at Rose Hill Cemetery in Rocky Hill, CT on Tuesday, July 9th at 11:00am

In lieu of flowers, Please offer on Mary Lou’s behalf – a kindness, help or support to someone in need; whether acquainted or not. Keep the Faith, Spread Kindness & Love; Always remember, Happiness is a choice and Jesus Christ will Never leave or forsake you – He’s waiting for you to talk with Him. He IS the Way, the Truth and the Life and the Only Way to Our Most High Father’s Kingdom. He and Mary Lou hope to see us ALL there.