Mary Makarewicz
MEQUON - Mary Makarewicz (Bilda/Goodspeed), a remarkable mother, sister, grandmother and friend of many, began the next chapter of her journey as she transitioned from this earth on July 27, 2023, reuniting with many loved ones who have passed before her.
On September 3, 1950, the world became a better place when Mary was born in Milwaukee, WI to Alvin “Al” (Deceased) and Mary Goodspeed (Deceased). Mary was the oldest of four: Tom Goodspeed, Ann Goodspeed, Monica Haubenstricker (Goodspeed). At a young age, Mary proved to be a leader and nurturer, qualities many loved her for throughout her life. She went on to graduate from UW-Madison and had a successful career at M&I Bank.
Mary had two children with her high school sweetheart, Scott Bilda: daughter, Jennifer Bilda(Fish); son, Jon Bilda. After Scott passed, she joined her family with Wauwatosa neighbor, Tom Makarewicz and his family: daughter, Melissa Papaleo(Makarewicz); son, Tom E. Makarewicz. Together they built memories that included annual ski trips to Michigan, Saturdays in Madison for Badger football games, spring breaks in Florida and many long weekends in Door County, WI.
Mary is remembered for her engaging storytelling, intelligence, unwavering support and dedication to her beloved Wisconsin Badgers and Green Bay Packers. Her ability to know when to be a good listener and when to offer advice made her the friend, mom, and sister that we were all lucky to have. She was fearless when facing the challenges set forth for her and never let her obstacles break her spirit. Family meant everything to Mary, and nothing made her light up more than spending time with her grandchildren (Maddie, Kenzie, George Makarewicz; Sophia Papaleo; Corbin, Josie, Dani Fish)
A celebration of life will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, November 17, 2023 at St. Hedwig Parish, 1702 N Humboldt Ave, Milwaukee, WI. Friends and family are welcome to meet with the family prior to the services starting at 9:30am. The celebration will continue with a lunch immediately afterwards with details to be provided at the mass.