Mary H. Destefani

Mary H. Destefani, age 81, of New Philadelphia, passed away Friday, June 18, 2010, in Union Hospital at Dover following a period of declining health. A daughter of the late William and Mildred (Steffey) Buckohr, Mary was born in New Philadelphia on August 4, 1928. After graduating from New Philadelphia High School in 1946, Mary went on to work at Buehler’s Food Market and Frownfelter’s IGA in New Philadelphia before becoming a full-time caregiver and cook to her family. On October 25, 1952, Mary wed her husband, James P. Destefani. Together, the couple raised three children and shared more than 50 years of marriage until his passing in June, 2004. In addition to caring for her family, Mary enjoyed preparing Sunday meals and was well known for her excellent cooking and baking skills. She also enjoyed attending the activities of her grandchildren, including dance recitals; sporting events; and shows, concerts, and parades featuring the Dover High School Band. Mary and the family also enjoyed the company of miniature schnauzer canine companions for many years, most recently her dog Buddy. Mary will be greatly missed by her family, including a daughter, Susan Destefani of New Philadelphia; two sons, James (Dianne) Destefani of Ann Arbor, MI, and Jerry A. Destefani of Dover; five grandchildren, Sara, Elizabeth, Michelle, David and Debra; and a sister, Linda (Walter) Willoughby of Dover. A sister-in-law, Margaret Kopp of New Philadelphia; two cousins, Delene Stemple of Dover and Sandra Fait of New Philadelphia; and numerous nieces and nephews complete the family. In addition to her parents and husband, Mary was preceded in death by two sisters and brothers-in law, Ethel (Paul) Burrier and Norma (Robert) Celce; sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, Charles (Mary) Destefani, Frank (Martha) Destefani, Teresa (Gabriel) Mattevi, Lena (John) Calai, Louis Destefani and Warner Kopp. The family will receive friends on Monday, June 21, 2010, from 4:00 â?? 7:00 PM in the Linn-Hert-Geib Funeral Home & Crematory at New Philadelphia. Monsignor George J. Schlegel will lead a service celebrating Mary’s life in the funeral home’s chapel on Tuesday, June 22, 2010, at 10:30 AM. Burial will follow in Calvary Cemetery at New Philadelphia. Memorial contributions in Mary’s name may be directed to Hospice of Tuscarawas County, 201 W. Third Street, Dover, Ohio 44622.