HUNTER, Mary Ann

Mary Ann Hunter, May 18, 1927 - March 29, 2004. Truly facing life head on, Mary Ann loved to fill every minute of every day. A first generation American, she was a mother of three who supported her children as a registered nurse, a profession she maintained for 55 years. "Gram" also became the family renowned gourmet cook (whether we liked it or not) and rivalled the local library with a very well-read extensive book collection of her own. Original Mary Ann Hunter paintings still adorn her walls. Ornately hand-costumed porcelain St. Nicholas dolls and handcrafted baby apparel and blankets continue to serve as a reminder for her attention to details. "G.G.'s" Scrabble dictionary and Random House Dictionary of the English Language (c. 1967) remains in perfect reach for the rest of us as we try to to keep up with her grandiose utilization of the English vernacular. Mom's laugh was heartwarming and contagious, her joie de vivre undeniable, and the love she had for her family immeasurable and eternally unforgettable as it continues to burn in each of our hearts. Survived by her two brothers, Joe Bodek (Elizabeth) of Sarasota, FL and John Botek (Gene) of Shingle Springs, CA; her three children Debbie Hunter Sylvester (Steve) of Prescott, AZ, Scott Hunter (Laurie) of Columbia Falls, MT, and Craig Hunter of San Bernadino, CA; her four grandchildren Christopher Sylvester (Jennifer), Trevor and Logan Hunter, Brian Hunter; and her two great-grandchildren Jackson Hunter Sylvester and Chance Alexander Sylvester. The Holy Spirit I trust is joyful with such a spirit ascending to the ranks of Heaven. We love you Mom, Gram, G.G. and we will miss you dearly. May you find peace everlasting. Published in the Arizona Republic on 4/2/2004.