Mary E Beech passed away at the age of 96 on August 17, 2022 at St. Joseph’s Hospital, Hamilton. She will be missed by her children and grandchildren: Beth Beech (Greg Gould), Allie and Ian Penner; Roger Beech, Sarah and Nathan Beech; Paul Buzzo, Ella Buzzo; Joan Beech (Douglas Falshaw) Chris and Kim Falshaw and Joshua Beech Falshaw; Scott Beech (Cindy Lebold) Isaac, Micah, Thomas and Laura Beech; extended family and friends.
Predeceased by her husband Murray Beech, daughter Nan Beech, sister Jessie Rogers, brother David Rogers, and parents Jessie and Colin Rogers.
Mary was active with her family and friends while always giving back through her volunteer work. She had a dry sense of humour and an intelligence that added to discussions whether it be about a book, art or an action plan. She made friends wherever she was: volunteering with Grandmothers of Steel, Unitarian church, square dancing, Carnegie and Hamilton Art Galleries, St Joseph’s hospital, neighbour to neighbour, NDP campaigns, Harvest Guatemala, and while working in a bookstore and fine jewellery boutique.
Mary’s family would like to thank Mary’s friends as well as the people at Residence on Augusta, Shalom village residence and long term care for ushering Mary through the challenges of aging with Alzheimers during Covid. We were moved by the compassion of the staff at St. Joseph Hospital who made her comfortable during her last days. The care they gave made the hardest days more bearable and for that we are grateful.
Family and friends are invited to a visitation August 22th from 1:00 to 2:00 pm, followed by a service at 2:00pm at Turner Family Funeral Home, 53 Main Street, Dundas. The family asks that all attending please wear a mask when indoors. There will be a private burial service with immediate family following the service.
To watch the livestream: https://event.forgetmenotceremonies.com/ceremony?c=cff1b844-7c42-4545-9d9f-544c3792db09
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the following organizations:
Inter Pares
Stephen Lewis Foundation (Grandmothers of Steel)
Carnegie Gallery
Hamilton Food Share
Mary was always friendly, kind, and warm when we would cross paths. I am glad I knew her even a little.
I knew Mary from our days in the Grandmothers of Steel group. She always had a smile on her face. She was a lovely woman to know and will be missed. My condolences to the family.
It was an honour and privilege to know Mary, her effort-less pie making, uncanny card playing, wry self-deprecating humour, and warm, loving Gran to our kids, Allie and Ian and the rest of the Beech grandkids of course. She was quietly disciplined and principled but not judgemental. I miss her quiet,warm presence. Condolences to all her family.
Godspeed Mary
Our sincerest condolences to you Beth, Martin and all your family on the loss of your lovely mother and grandmother. Truly a hard time to go through as you witnessed her decline, pitching in together to help her as much as you could through a difficult time and transitions. Please feel loving hugs of support from me and all your family and friends. I am grateful she was one of our greatest supporters while playing music at the ceilis and other performances which she seemed to rather enjoy. I’lo miss her gentle smile and stories. May she RIP.
Mary Beech was one of the finest women I’ve ever known. Her social conscience was sharp and never faltered. She was kindness itself, a dear friend, and the world is poorer for her loss. I wish much comfort to her beloved family.
Bernadette Rule
I have enjoyed Mary’s company for many years she was a joy to spend time with.
Our latest visits were going together to see her old friend Jessie Kaye.
Con hamilton
I have never met Mary but sending my love and condolences to Beth, Martin and the whole Beech extended family.
Judith Gould