Mary Gates Savacheck

Mary Gates Savacheck

In loving memory of Mary V. (Gates) Savacheck.

Mary Savaccheck was born 26th of April 1938, in Loveland Co. to Willard Gates and Faurene (Kersher) Gates. Mary passed quietly at home June 22nd, 2024, surrounded by family and friends.

Mary was preceded in death by her father: Willard Gates; and her mother: Faurene (Kersher) Gates. Mary is survived by her daughter: Laura (VanDyke) Holley; and her children: Jessica, Matthew (Robert), Genifer and Amanda, along with 5 great grandchildren.

Mary is also survived by her sister: Martha (Gates) Meyers; her three children: Kathy, Donald and Dan; and their children.

Mary grew up in Loveland, Colorado and graduated from Colorado State University, in Fort Collins. Soon after graduation she came to Grants to fulfill her dream of becoming a teacher. Mary lived a full life dedicated to her church, community, teaching and volunteering – Mary taught at Mt. Taylor Elementary School, Mesa View Elementary School – as well as NMSU Grants branch.

She was devoted to education and believed that learning did not stop when you left the classroom. She was involved in the State Science fair at both state and local levels, which many of her students attended. Mary touched the lives of countless students and parents throughout her years of teaching.

Mary retired in 1992, after 30 years of teaching in Grants and surrounding areas. Though retired she never truly stopped teaching, she continued to teach those around her by sharing her knowledge and love of plants, birds and history.

Mary was a member of the First Presbyterian Church for over 60 years. She helped with many Easter pancake breakfasts, services, summer camp, and many other activities within the church. Mary was an active member of the Chamber of Commerce Mining Museum, Historical Society, Crime Stopper. She served on the Housing Authority board and was a longtime volunteer for the Mt Taylor Quadrathlon. Mary was active on many more committees and aspects of the community.

Mary always loved to travel, to see the beauty and experience the history of other places. She traveled with friends by bus, Ocean liners, River ships and trains. Mary traveled to the UK, Scotland, Wales, Ireland, France, The Netherlands, Luxembourg, Italy and many more places both in the United States and overseas. When in France, she visited Omaha Beach on the coast of Normandy. Her father fought in World War 2 and was involved in the rebuilding post WW2. She also visited many American cemeteries in Europe. Mary had a great love for history.

When she wasn’t traveling you could find her reading a book. She loved books both reading and collecting them, new authors and well established. She was always expanding her horizons through knowledge. Through all of her endeavors, Mary never forgot those around her, friends, neighbors and family. She was always there to lend a hand when needed, no matter when, or what was needed.

In Mary’s memory, take a trip, read a book, and share it with friends and family. Always continue to grow. Mary, you will be deeply missed by family, friends and the community. Your spirit will continue to guide us and inspire us to be ever growing in mind and soul.

Memorial service will take place on Wednesday July 17th, 2024 2PM, at the Mt. Taylor Funeral Home Chapel in Grants, New Mexico.