Mary Anne Ericsen

Mary Anne Ericsen, 87, of Modesto, died October 5 of kidney failure. Born Mary Lamb in Wauwatosa, WI, Mary and her husband, Richard, were married in 1951 and had been married 52 years at the time of his death.
Mary and Richard moved several times in the 50's, as Richard's engineering career blossomed. Their family moved to Modesto in 1963 where she remained until her death.
It was her desire to meet new people and be of service to others that fed Mary's zest for life. She served as a volunteer for Doctor's Hospital, was on the Salvation Army board of directors and enjoyed a role as neighborhood mom to the many friends and classmates her sons brought home while they were growing up. A member of Geneva Presbyterian Church, she also held many titles at Dale Commons, including Mrs. Santa Claus, past president of the Resident's Council and Champion Wii bowler.
But the role she cherished most was that of FRIEND. No matter where she went, Mary would speak to people and learn their names and stories, which she remembered with amazing accuracy. A simple conversation with Mary left you uplifted and chuckling at her sense of humor, which defied her age.
Mary resided at Dale Commons Assisted Living for 11 years, after her vision failed and she could no longer drive or live alone. During those years, she established friendships and bonds with the other residents, as well as the employees. While Mary was living out her final days, a steady stream of employees stopped by and shared their fondest memories with her and members of her family. Every person considered Mary their friend, cheerleader, and supporter, a true testament to Mary's ability to span generations with her kindness. Whether Mary was encouraging them to continue their educational endeavors or calming their job jitters, she truly connected with everyone at Dale Commons.
Surviving Mary are her sons, Jeff and Robert, four grandchildren, five great-grandchildren, many nieces and nephews, as well as Mary Raymond, her "adopted daughter". She was pre-deceased by five siblings- Tom, Dan, Catharine, Margaret and Charles.
A celebration of Mary's life will be held Friday, October 13 at Dale Commons, 3900 Dale Rd. Modesto beginning at 7:30 p.m. Please come and share a story as we gather to honor Mary's spirit.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests any memorial donations be made to either Community Hospice or the Dale Commons Employee Christmas Fund.