Mary Cey

Mary Josephine Cey, beloved Wife, Mother, Sister, Aunt and Friend, passed away on October 10, 2022, quietly and gracefully at Poplar Courts Nursing Home in Wilkie, Saskatchewan. It was so appropriate that her last day was Thanksgiving Day, as she spent her life extending gratitude and appreciation and was so generous with her personal gifts and spirit.

Mary was born at home in Carmelheim, Saskatchewan, on March 14, 1934, to Stephen and Mary Schwebius. She was the middle daughter in a family of seven children, which gave her the unique opportunity of being the youngest, when spending time with older siblings, and the oldest, when she was helping out with younger siblings. Music was a big part of family life, and with her sister Lucy at the organ, the family would raise their voices together in song at home and whenever they could. 

The year after Mary graduated from high school, she taught school at Standard, Saskatchewan. However, her career as a formal teacher was cut short, as she was swept off her feet by Leo Cey who would become her husband on July 27, 1954. She would later help Leo study to become a teacher, and was so proud of the life that they were building together in Saskatoon, Lloydminster and then the Edmonton area. They enjoyed 66 years together and cherished one another until their last breath. Mom and Dad were an elegant couple, and their love for each other was so apparent. Out at a dance, Mom would only need to glance at him, and he would rise and hold out his hand to lead her to the dance floor, where they would glide in perfect harmony. Their love was inspiring.

Mary had many godchildren, nieces and nephews and always had time for them, from a young age until her final days. Family was first, and godchildren were considered the greatest blessing. She was proud of the success of her own children, godchildren and grandchildren and made sure to always keep track of them, sending cards and making phone calls to remember their birthdays and special events in their lives. One of the special events her granddaughters remember were the times that their Grandma spent individually with them, teaching them her special bun making techniques to ensure that they would carry her tradition into their own lives.

Mary was an amazing volunteer and gave of her time and talents continuously. She was so fulfilled by doing things for others and had limitless energy to give. Both Mary and Leo spent countless hours visiting the sick in hospitals, nursing homes and long term care facilities. Their gentle nature comforted others through intentional time spent and shared prayer. 

Mary loved to cook and bake for her family and others. If she knew what you liked best, it was almost certain to be on the table when you came to visit. Cinnamon buns, apple pies and rhubarb crisp were favourites. Her freezer was always full of homemade treats that she could pull out at the last moment to serve to her guests. Often, the company was over for a game of cards. She liked Kaiser, Schmear, 500, Bridge and a variety of other games. Always up for good natured competition, she complemented taking tricks and victories with handing out snacks and refreshments.

Mary spent many years with the CWL. During her time in Sherwood Park, she was the President for several years and was very proud of the responsibility and encouraged others to join to experience the opportunity to grow in faith through ministry and service. When she moved to Wilkie and transferred into their CWL, many were surprised to see her arrive for a holiday party dressed as Santa Claus. Mom had a wonderful sense of humour and loved to hear laughter and spread joy.

Mary found beauty in everything and everyone that crossed her path. She took the time to notice and appreciate small details. Happiest in her kitchen, her hands were always busy and that brought her such joy. While she worked, Leo was always near, reading to her from the newspaper, the Bible or a biography, always at the ready to peel apples or potatoes, hoping for a sample of her next creation. Leo and Mary would spend their final years at Poplar Courts Nursing Home, in Wilkie Saskatchewan. Leo accompanied his dear wife there with complete devotion, stating, “wherever she goes, I will be there with her,” and his patient and loving care of Mary was exemplary.

Mary is survived by her children Joanne Cey and Maureen (Kelly) DieBold and granddaughters, Andrea, Dakota and Kayla. She is also survived by brothers and sisters Lucy Rohs, Leo (Marie) Schwebius  and Lorraine (George) Sperling as well as brothers- and sisters-in-law George (Thelma) Cey, Bob Cey, Joan Fischer, Cheryl Cey and Caroline Cey.

She is predeceased by her devoted husband Leo, her parents Stephen and Mary Schwebius, brothers and sisters Rita (Emil) Rondeau, Ray (Merlyn) Schwebius, Alvin (Carol) Schwebius as well as brothers- and sisters-in-law Ed Rohs, Pauline (Charlie) Schwebius, John (Helen) Cey, Bill (Ethel) Cey, Bruno (Margaret) Cey, Bernie (Magdalene)Cey, Teo (Joe) Keller, brother-in-law Pius Fischer, and Donald Cey.

A celebration of Mary’s life will be held at St. James Roman Catholic Church in Wilkie, Saskatchewan on Monday October 17, 2022. The Rosary will be led at 10:15 am prior to the Mass of Christian Burial at 10:30. Interment will follow.

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