Mary A. Zajac

Mary A. Zajac passed away peacefully on March 14, 2026, in North Aurora, Illinois. Born on April 23, 1948, in Evergreen Park, Illinois, she grew up on the south side of Chicago and graduated from Oak Lawn Community High School in 1967. The daughter of the late Edward and Elene Burt, Mary was introduced to Mark Zajac by her sister Rose. They fell in love and married on July 19, 1980, sharing a devoted partnership until his passing.

Mary’s greatest joy was her family. She is survived by her children, Marcia (Jeff) Matson, Michelle (Jesse) Crossen, Merideth (Mike) Scaglione, and Mark (Laura) Zajac. She was a loving grandmother to Delaney, the late Justin, Kierstin, Koltin, James, Connor, Tanner, Tyler, Jailee, Mia, Caleb, Jaxson, and Emmy, and a great-grandmother to Juanita and Luna. Her warmth, strength, and nurturing spirit left a lasting impression on every generation.

Mary found pleasure in life’s simple enjoyments—gambling, long walks, playing bingo, and reading. She was known for her exceptional cooking, especially her Biscuit Pizza, Pumpkin Pie, and the macaroni salad that appeared at every family gathering. Even through her long battle with dementia and Alzheimer’s, her core qualities of love and resilience endured.

She now rests peacefully, reunited with her beloved Mark. Her family will carry her memory forward with gratitude for the love and wisdom she so generously gave them.