Mary Lucy Siefke

Mary Lucy Siefke, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on September 20, 2024, after a lengthy battle with Alzheimer's. She was born on October 11, 1928, in Watsonville, California, to Croatian immigrants Mitchell and Nikoline Marinovich.

Mary grew up on Wilkie Avenue in Watsonville and attended Minnie White School, E.A. Hall, Watsonville High School, and Hartnell College. On February 14, 1954, she married Jim Siefke, and the couple soon relocated to Orange County, where they welcomed their two sons, Louis and Paul. In 1969, Mary and Jim returned to Watsonville to be closer to her family, where they made their home.

Mary had a deep love for her family and community. She cherished long walks, especially at the beach, often accompanied by her brother Nick and sister Helen. A devoted San Francisco Giants fan, she eagerly looked forward to Spring and Summer, when she could spend her days at Orchard Park Pool or cheering on her grandchildren at their sports events. In the evenings, she would return home to watch the Giants play. Mary was a familiar face at St. Francis Sharks basketball, softball and football games, where her enthusiastic cheers could always be heard.

Mary was actively involved in her community as a member of the Pajaro Valley Historical Association and the Slavonian American Citizens Organization (SACO). Her commitment to family, history, and culture left a lasting impact on those who knew her.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Jim, her son Paul, her brother Charlie Marinovich, and her sister Nina Brooks. She is survived by her loving son Louis (Kelli), daughter-in-law Christy, and her cherished grandchildren Brianna, Stephen, Elizabeth Coyne (Cameron), and Jacob. Mary also leaves behind her great-granddaughter Lainey Coyne, her brother Nick Marinovich, her sister Helen Ukestad, a niece and numerous nephews.

Mary's memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew her. She will be deeply missed but not forgotten.

A Catholic Mass will be held October 10, 2024 at 10:00 at Valley Catholic Church, with burial to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Pajaro Valley Historical Association, 332 East Beach St., Watsonville, CA. 95076.

Mehl's Colonial Chapel has been entrusted with the funeral arrangements.

Published in The Pajaronian · September 30, 2024