Others' Comments
Janis Embree Monday, December 29, 2008 at 3:07p Steve and family- I am so sorry to hear of Mary's passing. I remember Mary from our years at Cottey College. What a wonderful time we had together. I remember the times Steve came to visit Mary in the dorm. So many times he brought her large stuffed animals. She laughed about them and how her room began to look like a zoo. Mary was always such a happy person and a joy to be around. Mary, you will be missed.
Shawn and Robin Betterley Wednesday, December 17, 2008 at 5:02p We are very sorry to hear about Mary's passing. We have wonderful memories of our dinners together in Philly. We know how hard this must be for you, as Robin and I share the same closeness that I know you and Mary have. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Hugs, Shawn and Robin
Paul Kuehner and Kevin Dadouses Tuesday, December 09, 2008 at 8:57a Kevin and I got to know you through our close mutual friends Christine and Doug Klauba. It was always a delight to see you over the years at Christine's Christmas party or at the Chicago Miniature Show. Your amazing talent and contributions to the world of miniture collectables will not be matched and I'm sure the loss will literally be felt world wide. We will always remember and cherish your generosity in openning your beautiful home and garden for our going away party when we moved to Canada in 2005. The obvious loving and warm relationship you and Steve had between you was reflected in your beautifu surroundings. You and Steve always glowed in the knowledge that you were true soul mates. Your courage when facing your illness will remain an inspiratuion to us all. Warm wishes to Steve and the pups as well as to your entire family. You will be missed.
Linda Young Monday, December 08, 2008 at 8:36p Dearest Mary, my friend for 19 years. And what great times David and I shared with Mary and Steve and their family. Business was business, but when Steve and Mary were at a show with us it was really something to look forward to. The many dinners and bar-b-ques together, playing cards with Doug and Christine, the tour Steve gave us of Chicago, the tour we gave them of Sarasota, and of course their daughters weddings are some of the most enjoyable memories we have of these past 19 years that both Mary and I have been in miniatures. Any show or trip that included Steve and Mary made it fun. The kidding and ribbing that went on between the four of us was constant. They made us a part of their family and we so treasured that. Steve and Mary were "joined at the hip" and the love between the two of them made them a delight to spend time with. I know Mary must have had bad days like we all do, but all I ever saw was that beautiful smile which was always accompanied by that cute little laugh she had. I will never forget that and I will hold her in my heart forever. She was one very special lady and we will miss her greatly.
Karin McCool and Van DeLisle
Sunday, December 07, 2008 at 9:26a
To Steve and Mary.
Van and I knew you through our mutual friends Christine and Doug. We especially remember the two of you sitting together - often holding hands - in front of the fireplace at their Christmas parties. The party at your house on a beautiful summer day at your 'private resort' in the back yard among those wonderful ponds is another vivid and happy memory of the two of you (with your beloved dogs). The deep love you had for each other was always so very clear and inspirational.
We marvelled at the courage, optimism and openness with which you fought Mary's terrible illness together, and the grace with which you ended that fight.
Our deepest condolences go out to you, Steve, and your lovely daughters in your grief and sadness, as well as your entire family. We hope the memories of a rich and happy life together will ease that pain.
To Mary: Rest in peace.
Caroline and Morris Huffman Saturday, December 06, 2008 at 10:06a Steve and family and Paul, We are sorry that you have lost Mary but it is only for a short time in the scheme of things as we will all be reunited one day as Mary already has been with all that family that has gone before her to be with the Lord. Steve, we have appreciated your weekly updates of your last couple of years as you and Mary fought for her to survive. We know that it was a tough fight but you had lots of people in your corner cheering you on that you never even knew about as those emails got passed on from Dave and Mae to us and then to others to keep you in prayer. We will continue to hold you up in our prayers as you move forward. Love, Caroline and Morris
Viki Lezon Friday, December 05, 2008 at 6:07p I am so sorry for your loss. While I didn't know Mary well, I feel honored to have met Mary and Steve at Christine's many Christmas parties. The lovely gardens and pond will always be something I remember and a reflection of their artistic and generous nature. It is obvious that she is a truely kind and talented spirit. She left this world a better, more peaceful place, which is the greatest gift of all.
Carolyn Smith Friday, December 05, 2008 at 3:47p Words seem inadequate to express the sadness I feel at this time as my mind wanders through all the happy times we shared as young adults raising our families. Although no words can really help to ease the loss you bear, know that you are very close in thought and love. May the memories of love shared comfort you now and bring peace in the days ahead.
Christine Greco-Klauba
Friday, December 05, 2008 at 11:31a
Aah Mary, where do I begin. I have lost my best friend, so it is for myself and your family that I grieve because you are now free from the suffering you have so gallantly endured. We were first introduced through your wonderful miniatures bears. I was one of your best customers. Then we found that you and Steve lived close to us. We started going to dinner together and thus started a beautiful and fruitful friendship that has lasted for over 16+ years. They say as adults it is difficult to make friends but Doug and I and you and Steve just clicked and we so enjoyed our weekly get-togethers, various parties and trips. You have helped me in ways that you will never know. Besides your creativity, you were very positive about everything and you had an openness about wanting people to live their lives to the fullest. Doug and I are better people for having known you and Steve. The love that you and Steve shared was astonishing and forever on display when you and Steve were together (which was ALWAYS). I know Steve has lost his best friend, beloved wife, constant companion, confidant and lover. Rest assured that Doug and I will try to ease the pain as time goes on. I'll remember what a wonderful mother you were to your girls and am grateful to have been involved in Kristin and Kelley's lives a little bit. I'll remember what unabated joy you received from your grandsons Ricky IV and Chase. I'll remember have much fun you've had with your many dogs. But I'll remember most what a sweet, wonderful and giving friend you were to me. Some funny things that stand out about you were that you hated cooking but made delicious meals, didn't like housework but your house was always clean, were able to get things done in your yard just by pointing your finger (Steve gets this) and were always so easy going but had a way of letting people know what you wanted without offending them. We love you and will always cherish the many memories that the four of us have created. To sum up your life in your own words "Good job, Mary".
Love forever, Christine & Doug
Inka and Bill Thursday, December 04, 2008 at 1:43p Kristin , I am so sorry for your loss our prayers are with you and your family. I am so glad your mom was able to enjoy her grandsons if even for a short while.
Jeff and Carla Dvorak Thursday, December 04, 2008 at 9:33a Rick and Kristin~We are VERY sorry to hear about your loss. After reading all the amazing and caring messages about such a loving mother/friend/grandma, we see where Kristin gets her smile of happiness. May you and your families find peace as you are kept in our thoughts and prayers.
Tim and Kristin Durkin Thursday, December 04, 2008 at 8:09a We are deeply sorry for your loss...may you find strength through the support of your great family and friends. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Dennis and Barbara Harrison Wednesday, December 03, 2008 at 8:45p Our sympathy to you Steve, Paul, Kristen, Kelly and family. Mary touched so many lives and we were blessed by her friendship as well. We met Mary and Steve in OK City in 1974 and became instant friends. We treasure the last few years meeting in Chicago, Las Vegas and their recent trip to our home in PA over Labor Day. She was a talented, witty, and a special person and we were blessed to have known her. She will be missed by many.
Judie Mirous Wednesday, December 03, 2008 at 8:20p Steve and family. we were so sorry to hear about Mary. Although we didn't know either of you very well, you were both so gracious to Larry and I the day we visited your beautiful pond. We could tell then what a special relationship you had and how much you cared about each other. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you and that you can find comfort in the many wonderful memories you shared.
Leslie Wettergren Wednesday, December 03, 2008 at 3:28p Mary was a very special lady who always had a twinkle in her eyes. What I have also been most impressed by is Steve and Mary together, I am not sure I have ever met a more devoted couple who were truly joined at the hip as Steve is so fond of saying. It is definitely a case where the sum of the whole is greater than the parts, even though they were each pretty spectacular on their own as well. I know Steve and your family will all find comfort in the wonderful memories of the years you had with her. She will be greatly missed, but I am also thankful that she is beyond any suffering. Our thoughts are with you all.
Neva Kufeldt
Wednesday, December 03, 2008 at 10:35a
Mary and I were best friends in high school, growing up in Sterling, CO. I have wonderful memories of two vacations that we shared. Mary traveled with my parents, younger brother Kirk, and me to Disneyland on a trip to California the summer after our junior year. The following summer, after our high school graduation, Mary's family invited me to accompany them on a trip to Europe. It was one of the highlights of my life. Mary's family always treated me like family, and not only me, but also my brother Kirk. One time after missing school due to an illness, Kirk needed a note from Mom for his teacher, but forgot to ask Mom before she left to teach school. So, Kirk stopped by Mary's house, which was on his way to school, and asked Mary's mother to write a note for him. Mrs. Morris got such a kick out of telling that story. During college days, Mary and I were bridesmaids in each other's weddings, too. Over the years distance kept us from staying as close, as Art and I moved to Sugar Land,Texas, and Steve and Mary moved to Chicago. However, these past two years, I felt privileged that Steve included me in his weekly e-mail updates, which strengthened our bonds of friendship again. Numerous friends have joined me and my family in praying for Mary and her family, as I passed on the updates. Mary was a unique, gifted, gentle and beautiful friend, and I will treasure our friendship always. Mary can no longer speak to us face to face, but if she could, I believe she would want to encourage us, her loved ones and friends, with words of comfort like these that Jesus spoke in John 14: "Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me. In my Father's house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. . . I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." She would remind us that life is short, and none of us knows our final hour, so we should make sure we are ready. My life was made richer, because I was blessed with such a special friend named Mary. I thank God for her life.
Our love and prayers to Steve, Kristin, Kelley, Paul, Rick, Jason, Ricky and Chase. You are loved.
Love, Neva and Art, Kristen and Kendra
Jason and Jacqueline Getzan Wednesday, December 03, 2008 at 10:01a We spent so many good times with Mary and Steve. Shopping and dinners and spending time at miniature shows. Laughing and solving the problems of the world. We miss you Mary but you will always be in our thoughts.
Courtney Morissette Wednesday, December 03, 2008 at 8:46a Kel and family--I am so sorry for your loss. Your mom was such a sweet and wonderful lady. I hope it brings you some comfort to know that she is now at peace, and that in Heaven she now gets to eat anything she wants--awesome!!(Trust me to think of food, right?!). You are all in my thoughts and prayers. Love, Court
Karin Reichensperger Tuesday, December 02, 2008 at 11:51p Rick, Kristin & family- Sorry to hear about your loss. You will be in my thoughts and prayers. Please let me know if there is anything I can do.
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Riley Stallings
Tuesday, December 02, 2008 at 8:53p
hi Rick and everyone else thanks for putting up the web site its good to remember her this way, well everyone im so very sorry she was the sweetest person and my favorite cousin! I will miss her dearly.
Love Riley
Mae and Dave Huffman
Tuesday, December 02, 2008 at 8:23p
What Cancer Cannot Do
It cannot cripple Love
It cannot shatter Hope
It cannot corrode Faith
It cannot destroy Peace
It cannot kill Friendship
It cannot suppress Memories
It cannot silence Courage
It cannot invade the Soul
It cannot steal eternal Life
It cannot conquer the Spirit.
(Author unknown)
Mary was proof of all these things. She was so courageous throughout all that her cancer entailed. The e-mails from Steve kept us up on the journey. Their love was so amazing and so apparent in the e-mails, when we talked with them and when we were with them. Our prayers and love are with you all. We have fond memories of you from the time you were married till now. Dave has such fun memories of growing up with Mary and Paul. Once at our home Mary held our granddaughter and wondered if she would ever have grandbabies. We are so glad she got to hold and love Ricky and Chase. What a blessing. They will know their grandmother through pictures and stories. Love, Dave and Mae
Barbara Baffa Tuesday, December 02, 2008 at 7:51p I am so very sorry for your loss of a wonderful wife, mother and grandma. One of the words that comes to mind when I think of Mary is gracious. She made you feel like one of her family no matter where our paths crossed. She is looking down on us in peace and knows her family will take care of each other.
Kim Hynes Tuesday, December 02, 2008 at 7:11p My thoughts and prayers go out to your entire family. Kelley, I have so many fond memories of your mom. From when we were in 6th grade to our college years. She was an incredible woman with an incredible family. I'm so sorry for your loss.
Megan Nugent Tuesday, December 02, 2008 at 4:57p Kelley- I am so sorry to hear about your loss. You and your family will be in my thoughts and my prayers.
Scott and Kristen Prieto Tuesday, December 02, 2008 at 2:46p Kelley, we are so sorry to hear of your loss. You and your entire family are in our thoughts and prayers.
Kim Groen Tuesday, December 02, 2008 at 10:30a Rick & Krisitn: I am so sorry for your loss; my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Allison Hannon Cirullo Tuesday, December 02, 2008 at 9:34a Kelley and family - My deepest and most sincere condolences. Your mom was the sweetest woman, and always so kind to me when we would hang out at your house when were younger. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
Nancy Ross-Stallings Tuesday, December 02, 2008 at 9:29a First, I want to thank Rick so very much for putting together this website. You have done a beautiful job. I am Mary's cousin, and we grew up in Sterling, CO, three blocks apart. She was the sister I never had. She was three and a half years older, and I idolized her. We shared Christmases, birthdays, Fourth of July Family reunions, weddings-I was in hers, she was in mine; family vacations as children, all of the family things that create memories. She is my son's God-Mother. She was always there for me, no matter what, always loving and supporting me. I am sure that there were many times that I totally frustrated her, but I cannot think of one time that she ever frustrated me. She was just that way. I remember the first time I ever met Steve. There was a "social" at Cottey College, and I was still in high school. I got to visit for the weekend and go to the "social". He attended the social and she introduced me to him. I have never seen a couple that was so solidly married as Mary and Steve, and it was that way from the very beginning, over 36 years ago. Mary's talent as an artisan showed itself early. I can remember her making clothing for her little set of troll dolls out of felt pieces before she was out of elementary school. She was always a perfectionist and extremely patient when she was creating drawings or other artwork, even as a child. She did not stop until she was satisfied. Mary was who I called and asked advice of no matter what I was puzzled about, including personal relationships and career decisions, and I always took to heart what she suggested, because she always seemed to just know what was right and good. She was very quick to defend what she felt was wrong, and I loved her for that, too. I feel very lucky that I was born already having such a wonderful and special friend that would be there for me for over 54 years. She and Steve have been so special to my son and husband, and we will never be able to return all of the love and consideration she and her family have shown to us. The way that Steve and she raised Kristin and Kelley have been a model for the way that my husband and I have been raising our son. I have no idea what I will do without Mary physically here. I can only hope that she can continue to influence me from above! I know that she is with our other family members, now, who have gone on before us, and that they are loving the fact that she is with them again.
Renee' (Cedillo) Koeune and family Tuesday, December 02, 2008 at 9:22a thank you rick for this WONDERFUL website dedicated to a WONDERFUL woman. i know it has been quite a while since i have had the pleasure of speaking and seeing Mrs Bures...but i do remember how she always was just AWESOME! sleep overs and parties when we were younger. I never could wait for the time when it was the bures turn for the group sleepover. What a sweet sweet lady. Kelley and Kristin, as many have already said, will carry on those outstanding qualities in their journeys as mothers. What a great role model. Mr. Bures...i pray for strength for you as you continue on until you meet your beautiful wife again. Kristin and family, and kelley and family, we pray for strength for you all in this difficult time, and until you can be with her again. I am sure she will always be watching over you and will never truly leave your sides. She will be with all of you forever! This is probably the sweetest family i have ever had the privilege of meeting, and thank you for allowing me to share in so many good times with back in the day!
Jill and Steve Morrison Tuesday, December 02, 2008 at 9:16a We are deeply saddened by your loss. It's hard to understand why God needed another angel, but he sure got one in Mrs. Bures. She will be greatly missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family.
Jill Weiss Tuesday, December 02, 2008 at 9:12a Kristin, Rick and family - I'm so sorry for your loss. I've heard only wonderful things about how strong and loving your mom was. My thoughts are prayers are with you.
Ryan Reeves and Shannon Webster Tuesday, December 02, 2008 at 9:11a Rick, Kristin and Family, Our hearts go out to you and yours during this difficult time. You will be in our prayers. Please don't hesitate if there is anything that you may need.
Leni & Tom Bishop Tuesday, December 02, 2008 at 9:01a We will miss seeing Mary's ALWAYS SMILING face. She was a most amazing person! Love you!
Matt & Erin Dvorak Tuesday, December 02, 2008 at 8:37a It is inspiring to read the amazing things people have to say about Mary, her life, her heart and her soul. Rick & Kristin, we are so sorry. Please let us know if there is anything we can do.
Tony & Michelle Pedretti
Tuesday, December 02, 2008 at 8:33a
"To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die."
Our hearts and prayers are with you and your family. Mary's memories will comfort you now and the days ahead. We love you!
Bill Dvorak & Addie Lernihan Tuesday, December 02, 2008 at 8:24a Rick and Kristin, We are very sorry about your loss. Mary was an amazing woman and she will be missed. You will be in our thoughts and prayers. Let us know if you need anything.
Jackie Caragol (Dolan) Tuesday, December 02, 2008 at 8:12a Rick, Kristin, and family, We are very sorry for your loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Please let us know if you need anything. We love you.
Joy Palomo-Clark Tuesday, December 02, 2008 at 8:10a Kristin and Rick- I'm so sorry for your loss. Kristin, I'm sure it was a blessing for you to have her with you when Ricky was born. My thoughts are with your family.
Connie Brouillette Tuesday, December 02, 2008 at 7:49a I don't think I can remember a moment when I didn't see Mary smile. She had such a positive attitude towards life, even when she faced such overwhelming challenges. It was always a joy to be in the presence of both Mary and Steve and see how they interacted with each other - "Soul Mates" describes it best. Mary waited so anxiously for her grandbabies to be born and relished every moment she had with them. If it's true that people live on in our memories, then Mary will live on forever. I will miss you, Mary, and all the M & M's we shared at the bear shows.
Terri Gonzalez Tuesday, December 02, 2008 at 7:36a Rick and Kristin, I'm very sorry to hear about this sad news. I've only met your mom a few times, but her smile & laugh was something I never forgot. It brought tears to my eyes when I read Rick's mom's comments. It was perfectly written and beautiful. My heart goes out to your families & I will add you to my prayers.
Pat Fairbanks Tuesday, December 02, 2008 at 7:05a I never know what to say at a time like this. I am saddened to know Mary has moved on to another world. She will be greatly missed. I always knew if Steve and Mary were at a show I was attending, they would add joy. Your talents and warm personalities always added an extra quality to the show. Your partnership and joy were always such an inspiration. While the girls will not remember me, I remember meeting them. They were a true reflection of the warmth of your wonderful family. I will always cherish "Mary", the tiny bear, that had no mouth because she "was such a good listener." and Mary, I have always cherished the lion you gave me as a gift for the mink scraps I shared. May your fabulous memories ease the pain of your loss. Thank you so much for taking time to allow us to share in your lives. The pictures are simply GREAT. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. You are loved. Mary was very special.
Jeff Cucio Tuesday, December 02, 2008 at 4:34a Rick and Kristin, I am very sorry for your loss. My heart goes out to you and your family. You will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Jen Koenig & Thom Elliott Tuesday, December 02, 2008 at 0:22a Kristin and Rick - We are very sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your families during this difficult time.
Tasha Mansfield Monday, December 01, 2008 at 10:56p Kristin, Rick, Ricky and Bures family. Chris and I were so saddened to hear of your loss. Kristin - your mother sounds like such an inspiration as a mother, wife, and friend. What a fight she upheld. I only hope that during this difficult time your are surrounded by lots of love and stories to make you reminisce and laugh. You are in our hearts and prayers. God Bless, the Mansfield's
Debbie Dvorak Monday, December 01, 2008 at 10:42p Steve, Kristin, Kelley, Rick, Jason and Paul - I can't begin to tell you how very sorry I am for all of you. After reading all the absolutely wonderful things written about Mary, I wish I had known her, I'm sure she was a very incredible woman!!! She sounds like she touched every heart she came in contact with, and after knowing Kristin all these years, I can definitely see now where she gets her loving, caring, kind personality from. The great memories you have will live on in your hearts forever, and she will always be with you, helping and guiding you along the way. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you at this difficult time.
Mary G. Monday, December 01, 2008 at 10:35p Mary Lynn, my childhood chum, there isn't a time I didn't know you. You are one who has known me, literally, all of my life, and were like the sister I never had growing up. Our Moms were good friends, so it followed naturally we grew up together. Giggling until past midnight in your twin beds at 606 Columbine, birthday parties with colored 7-up at 303 Elwood, a hula hoop, car pooling to 7th grade with Mindy Reynolds and and Barb Harris, gammaglobulin shots, Brownies (you looked better in the beanie), yellow clodhopper shoes you hated, your playhouse, being chased by "Malificent" (Steve Christensen) at recess, piano lessons (you practiced, I didn't), the books we wrote and you illustrated....Those bangs - who cut them anyway?? And your wonderful, familiar grin....all snapshots in my own memory book. Despite time and distance, you and your beautiful family remain close by in my thoughts, as you always have been and always will be. Every October 13th, be assured you are still older than I. Peace be with you and yours, my long time friend. With love, Mary G.
Scott & Catherine Bruining Monday, December 01, 2008 at 10:23p Kristin, Rick- We are very sorry for your loss. You and your family will be in our thoughts and prayers.
Jo Ann and Dick Mayes
Monday, December 01, 2008 at 9:26p
More than just "kissin-cousins twice removed" we are all family, Steve, and Mary will always be with us. We cherish memories of good times here in OKC -- and the Corpus Christi time when beautiful little Kristin and Kelley were bridesmaids (in our Julie's wedding) wearing dresses designed and made by their multi-talented Mother.
Longfellow observed that "The heart, like the mind, hath its own memory and in it are enshrined the precious keepsakes." I remember how your Mother and I always considered you and Mary to be "the perfect couple." You, Mary, Kristin and Kelley will always be enshrined in our hearts. Dick and I love you all.
Mary Richter Monday, December 01, 2008 at 9:04p I met Mary in 1973 and have loved her for 35 years. We were there for each other during births and deaths. We decorated birthday cakes for all our children during the early years and shared pictures of them after the move to Chicago. I have so many wonderful memories of Mary when we'd shop and take four toe-headed children with us and just have so much fun. I remember the "Jenny" dresses that we passed down from child to child, how Kristin stayed with me when Kelley was born and ate all the sausage I cooked, the cake decorating classes, the VW that Mary and I loved to take, the sewing classes, watching her start her bear business by taking larger patterns and reducing them smaller and smaller--I could go on forever. Mary was truly the kindest person I have ever known and we loved each other as sisters. She was so proud to be a Grandma and more proud to see what wonderful mothers her daughters were. We talked about that a lot and how blessed she was to have a wonderful husband as Steve. There will always be a warmth in my heart when I think of her. She truly was the best.
Maria Markowicz Monday, December 01, 2008 at 8:57p I remember meeting Mary and Steve when our daughter, Melissa, and Kelley become cheerleaders for the Tinley Park Bulldogs. Later, we would sit in the stands together as Melissa and Kelley cheered at Andrew High School during Jason's basketball and football games. Who knew then Jason and Kelley would get married and unite our families forever! Our 5 a.m. morning workouts before the wedding went so much quicker when we shared them talking the whole time. I'll remember you as one of the most creative people I'll ever know. Your generous spirit, your wit, your willingness to share your beautiful pond with those who enjoy it so much, and the wonderful bond of closeness shared by your family will always be an inspiration to me. I see many of your loving traits in Kelley and Kristen as mothers. Over the last 2 years, I have prayed for you and your family continuously and will continue to do so. I know that you will be remembered in so many ways. I am so glad you are at peace now. Steve, Kelley and Kristen can rely on so many people to share wonderful stories about you. Chase and Ricky will be told many of them as they grow older. I'm so glad you are at peace. Frank and I will miss you. Just know that your family will be taken care of by many people who care.
CorDell & Sarah Larkin Monday, December 01, 2008 at 8:42p Kristin, we are so sorry to hear about your mother passing. But, we are glad to know she got to meet Ricky :) If there is anything we can do for you, Rick, and Ricky, please do not hesitate to ask.
Karen Miller Monday, December 01, 2008 at 8:09p I met Mary and Steve last September for the first time while traveling with friends. I have never met a couple more in love and committed to each other as the two of them. What a wonderful life with 40 years together! My thoughts and prayers are with you, Steve, Kristin, Kelley and your families. We'll see you this weekend.
Nikki Dvorak Monday, December 01, 2008 at 8:06p Rick, Kristin-as well as the Bures/Conklin family: I am so sorry to hear about your loss. I've only met Mary a hand full of times, but I saw how generous and loving she was every time I was around her. Her kindness lives on through Kristin and Kelley, who have such amazing hearts and loving personalities. I know she will live on through her family and Ricky and Chase will get to hear all the wonderful things their grandmother accomplished in her life. It was an honor to have met her--my thoughts and prayers are with all of your during this difficult time.
Jessica Shields Monday, December 01, 2008 at 7:54p Steve, Kristin, Kelley....I'm so shocked and saddened by this news. I didn't even know Mary was sick. I will always remember wonderful times spent at Grandma's house growing up. I love you all. God Bless and be with you during this hard time!
Abbie & Eric Milliman Monday, December 01, 2008 at 7:53p I cannot begin to express how sorry I am for your loss. Remember that she will be apart of you, always. She will look down on you every minute, not only with joy, but being proud of the people you have become as well as the people you one day will be. Im so happpppy I was able to get to know such a wonderful mother, wife, and friend. You all are in our thoughts, always. Love you guys! Love, Abbie
Jenni Neubauer (Wolcott) Monday, December 01, 2008 at 7:23p Rick and Kristin-I am so sorry for your loss. Your family is in my thoughts and prayers.
Stephanie Possehl Monday, December 01, 2008 at 6:38p Kelley, I cannot begin to tell you how sorry I am. It was so nice getting to know your mom during all of your wedding events and of course, Vegas! You and your family are in my thoughts and prayors. I wish I could attend this weekend, please know that I will be thinking about you. Love, Stephanie
Rich Conklin Sr Monday, December 01, 2008 at 5:13p Steve, Kristin, Kelley, Paul, Rick and Jason I am so sorry for your loss. Marys strong spirit and persistent will to beat this cancer will long be an inspiration for all of us. Her legacy will not only live on in her children but will now also live on in her grand-children. Mary was an amazing person and I am so grateful that I had the privilege of getting to knowing her. Mary will be in my prayers that her new journey will place her in a better world and each of you will be in my prayers for guidance and comfort at this difficult time.
Amy Witt Monday, December 01, 2008 at 4:41p I met you through Steve a long, long time ago when Kristin and Kelley were in pig tails (yes, they really were). I marveled at your family and the love and respect you all had for one another. As I look back on it, I think at your family's core was you, Mary. The root of love itself. The winsome smile, the gentle nudge, the modest acknolwedgement of praise for your efforts with your family. Whenever I thought of a solid family that could be around one another 24/7 (perish the thought!) I thought of the Bures. I have many memories of your, my friend. I have the memory of Gregory Hines innocently flirting with your daughters after a Broadway show. I have the memory of the tour the NBC station that Steve designed and your enthusiasm just as passionate as Steve's. I have the memory of your Scottie digging for a bone that didn't exist. I even have magical bears that I can hold in my palm that hold your talent within them. No matter how long a time it had been between visits or phone calls, it was as if no time had passed in between. I will miss you my friend. That is, until I see you again. Love, Amy.
Jeannette Conklin Monday, December 01, 2008 at 4:25p Oh, Mary. I am going to miss so much about you. Your sense of humor, your creativity, your gentleness, your pragmatism, your stregnth, and of course, your pumpkin bread. You were never too busy to "meet me for breakfast", or make a run to the craft stores. I so respected your advice on well, anything artsy and we had so much fun together planning Kristin's wedding and baby shower. (We spent way too much time and fun looking at ribbon for the diaper cakes, didn't we) What a sweet, gentle soul you have and I am glad to see those personality traits in your daughters. The whole extended family just loves Kristin and we will try to let her know so as much as possible. And Ricky (IV), well, we will do our part to share with him and explain through pictures and stories what a wonderful grandma he had. Even though we were "related" and you were stuck with me, I'm certain we enjoyed each others company and I am proud to have called you my friend. Rest peacefully now, Mary. Steve and the girls will care for each other and we will all help.
Alexandra Moise Monday, December 01, 2008 at 4:06p Steve and Kristin, I am deeply sorry for your loss . Sincerely, Alex
Amber Beeler Monday, December 01, 2008 at 3:42p Mary has been my hero for the past two years. The dignity and strength with which she handled herself during this destructive disease were a lesson to all of us. Take everything one day at a time, share each and everyone moment in a loving manner with your family and friends. Enjoy your surroundings and go forward like each and every day is your last. You will be sorely missed dear lady.
Jodie Reilly (Mirous) Monday, December 01, 2008 at 2:24p Kristin- I am so very sorry for your loss... your mom was a wonderful woman. You and your families are in our thoughts and prayers.
Sue Veeder Monday, December 01, 2008 at 1:11p I got to know Mary and Steve through miniatures, first at a show in Dallas and later at Chicago area shows. She was terrific, talented, funny and caring. Many times, with our show tables next to each other, we got very silly (remember Monty Python? The Killer Rabbit?) and we all had a lot of fun. I will really miss her, and I'm very glad I got to know her and Steve.