Mary M. Takach

Mary M. Takach, 87, of Bethlehem, formerly of Allentown, died Wednesday, March 12, 2008 at St. Luke's Hospital. She and her husband, the late Major Frank S. Takach, retired USMC, had been married for 45 years when he died in September of 1999.

She was the daughter of the late Emil and Agnes Famina Mesko.

A graduate of Liberty High School, class of 1938, Mary was an outgoing person who enjoyed sewing, gardening and music, especially playing the organ which she learned when she was in her 60's.

She loved children, especially babies. She had volunteered for the Navy Relief helping young military couples by knitting and sewing clothing for their babies. She received the "100 Hour Pin" from the Navy Relief for her efforts.

Mary was bi-lingual, learning Russian from her parents as a child. She put her Russian to use as a volunteer in hospital settings and at the Cleveland School in Allentown, where she used her talents to help a young boy who spoke only Russian.

Surviving are two daughters, Frances, wife of Michael Turanchik of Stephens City, VA and Stephanie, wife of Peter Faleski of Coopersburg. She is also survived by 4 grandchildren. She was predeceased by five brothers and one sister.

Funeral services will be at 2:00PM on Sunday, March 16 in the Connell Funeral Home, Inc., 245 E. Broad St., Bethlehem. Friends may call from 1:00 - 2:00PM .

Interment will be at Indiantown Gap VA National Cemetery on Tuesday, March 25, 2008.

In lieu of flowers please direct memorial contributions to Chapter 190 Military Order of the Purple Heart 6358 Manzanita Dr., Macungie, PA 18062