Mary M. Jesko

Mary Margaret Jesko (née Miller), 72, of Maumee, Ohio, passed away suddenly on January 4, 2025. Born on November 24, 1952, in Toledo, Ohio, she was the cherished daughter of the late Lucille and Casimer Miller.

Mary grew up in Toledo and attended St. Catherine's School and Parish before graduating from Central Catholic High School in 1970. She fondly recalled planning and attending dances at Luke's Barn at the Lucas County Rec Center. After high school, Mary moved to Bowling Green, Ohio, where she worked as a telephone operator at Ohio Bell. It was there that she met Butch (Rich) Jesko. The two married on May 24, 1975, and embarked on a six-week honeymoon adventure in their VW van with their dog, traveling to 14 states, three national parks, and two countries. Together, they built a life in Springfield Township and welcomed their children, Rachel and Ricky. Even after their divorce, Mary and Butch remained friends.

Mary was a devoted mother to Rachel (Joseph) Thoma and Richard (Stephanie) Jesko and a beloved Mimi to her grandchildren: Evelyn, Jack and Lorain. She took great joy in spending time with her family—whether shopping, crafting, playing games, or celebrating holidays. Christmas was her favorite time of year. Mary was often complimented for her delicious homemade food that she loved to share with others. Mary was blessed to have a four decade long friendship with her dear friends Tina and Mick Wentland. Mary enjoyed staying in touch with her “Miller cousins” with dinner gatherings as they relished in the memories they shared as children. Known affectionately as "Miss Mary" by neighborhood children, she loved spoiling them with popsicles and treats.

Mary was an animal lover that raised many dogs and critters throughout her life. She enjoyed walking her dog Brody and caring for her guinea pig Boomer. She cherished trips to the cottage on Houghton Lake in Michigan (that she was introduced to by her parents as a young child) and Gatlinburg in Tennessee. A woman of deep faith, she prayed the rosary nightly and found joy in sunsets, painting, reading, music dancing, and cheering for the Cleveland Browns and Michigan Wolverines.

Mary was predeceased by her sisters Kathy Fernandez and Connie Nadeau. She will be remembered for her kindness, love of family, and unwavering faith.

A celebration of Mary’s life will be held on Saturday, January 11, 2025, from noon to 3 p.m. at the Springfield Township Hall, 7617 Angola Road, Holland, Ohio. A large game of LCR will be played at 2 p.m.- plan to bring your quarters! In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital or the Toledo Animal Rescue. May her memory bring comfort to all who knew her.