Mary M. Gatskie

Mary M. Gatskie, 79, of Akron, Ohio, passed away surrounded by love. Born in Akron on June 25, 1946, Mary graduated from Buchtel High School before following her calling to nursing. She earned her RN license and devoted her career to caring for others, beginning in the Emergency Room at Akron General Medical Center and later finding her true passion in addiction services. For many years, she worked at Edwin Shaw’s addiction unit, where she made a profound impact helping individuals overcome their struggles and rebuild their lives. “Not all angels have wings, some wear scrubs,” her grandson shared, remembering her deep commitment to healing.

When Edwin Shaw closed, Mary continued her life’s mission as Director of Nursing at the Summit County Jail until her retirement. Never one to sit still, she later became a beloved paper carrier for the Akron Beacon Journal, braving countless winters and summers and forming lasting friendships along her route.

Mary’s heart was boundless. She was a mother not only to her two sons, James “Mike” Michael Gatskie Jr. and Matthew Louis Gatskie, but to countless “adopted” children and lost souls who found love and belonging in her presence. One of those whose life she touched said, “I can hardly find the words for what she meant to me. As a child, she took me in, not out of duty, but out of pure love. She saw me, she accepted me, and gave without asking anything in return. My heart is shattered, yet full, overflowing with love and gratitude for every moment I was blessed to share with her.”

Her eldest son, Mike, preceded her in death nearly 11 years ago. Mary is survived by her son Matthew (Lori), cherished grandson Brent (Taylor), cousins Patti and Kyra with their families, “special son” Erik (Sonya), daughter-in-law Cindie (Randy), many friends, her extended family of kids and grandkids, and her adored fur babies. Her family and friends remember her as “the epitome of love, life, laughter, kindness, and family,” and say she “left an imprint bigger than life itself.” Many shared sentiments like, “She was an amazing woman,” “She was like a grandma to us,” “She was such a sweet lady,” and simply, “Love that lady.”

Mary loved nothing more than gathering around her kitchen or dining room table with her kids and friends, sharing meals and laughter. As one lifelong friend put it, “We were friends for over 60 years.” Another added, “Every summer we were together all the time she was here.” One tribute summed up her legacy: “There are those whom in the pages of history books transcend the necessity of a surname, instead securing a title such as ‘the great’ to follow their forename, as many would agree Mary Gatskie has earned in the time on Earth.”

Mary requested no formal services; instead, she wanted her life to be celebrated with love and laughter. She will be cremated, and her ashes will be placed in the special places she chose. A dinner in her honor will be held at New Era Restaurant in the near future, where all who attend will be strongly encouraged to enjoy a plate of chicken livers and sauerkraut balls in her memory. Details will be shared on her Facebook page or by contacting Matt or Cindie.

Mary’s legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched, the friendships she cherished, and the love she so freely gave.