Mary Ann Reuss Silka ’71 passed away

Mary Ann Silka, 62, passed away Tuesday, August 11, 2015, at Mercy Regional Heart and Vascular Center due to complications from cardiac issues. Born to Henry and Ann Reuss, she was raised in St. Charles Borromeo parish, and graduated from McAuley High School, and the University of Toledo.

Mary Ann started working for the Toledo Lucas County Public Library in 1968, working in Children’s Room at Main Library in downtown Toledo. Her 35-year career with the library brought her to the West Toledo branch (where she met Ed, husband of 39 years), Reynolds Corners, and finally to Sanger Branch, where she retired in 2004. As a children’s librarian, hundreds of young people went to “Story Time” and Summer Reading Club to enjoy books, songs, crafts, games, and puppet shows. In her retirement, “Mrs. Silka” briefly worked as a Home Instructor for Toledo Public Schools. Mary Ann loved to work with her hands, whether it was sewing handbags, quilting, gardening, or just “being crafty”. She loved to entertain, whether it was Thanksgiving for six or a giant birthday party for 75. She was a parishioner at St. Pius X parish and most recently St. Patrick of Heatherdowns, singing in the choir and decorating the church for holidays.

Preceded in death by her parents, Mary Ann is survived by her husband, Ed Silka; daughter, Molly Silka; brothers, Bob Reuss (Pam) of Newport News, VA, Tom Reuss (Mary Therese) of Toledo; brother-in-law, Bill Silka (Chris) of Toledo; brother-in-law, Mike Silka (Marti) of Frankfort, IL, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Funeral services will be celebrated Saturday, August 22nd at St. Patrick of Heatherdowns Parish, 4210 Heatherdowns Blvd., Toledo, with visitation starting at 9:00 a.m. and Mass at 10:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, consider memorial contributions to The Toledo Zoo or charity of the donor’s choice .

Thanks to the medical staff at Mercy Regional Heart and Vascular Center for their unwavering support and great care for the last 3 weeks. Please view and sign the guest registry at

coylefuneralhome.com

Published in Toledo Blade on Aug. 16, 2015