At the age of 84, of Buffalo, New York, passed away peacefully on October 31, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family. Born to the late Albert J. and Mary A. (Neidbala) Lake, Mary was a beacon of love and strength, cherished as a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Robert, with whom she shared 55 wonderful years of marriage.
Mary’s legacy lives on through her children: Michael (Maureen), Mary Beth (Eric) Metcalf, Patrick (Denise), Daniel (Pamela), Christopher (Joanna), Charles (Tina), Kathleen, and Paul (Yrua), as well as her fourteen grandchildren, who were the light of her life.
A proud graduate of Nardin Academy (’59) and D’Youville University (’64), Mary earned her BA in Education and began her teaching career at Nardin Academy. However, her greatest joy came from nurturing her family, as she took a leave to raise her eight children, foster four others, and lovingly babysit many more. After dedicating years to her family, Mary returned to her roots at St. Agnes School, where she taught kindergarten for eighteen years, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of her students and their families.
Mary was deeply committed to her community in East Lovejoy. Together with Robert, she played a pivotal role in retaining Engine 28, welcoming new neighbors, and establishing a care network for the elderly, homebound, and those facing mental health challenges. Her unwavering dedication to service earned her numerous accolades, including the Lovejoy District Citizen of the Year Award (2003), the St. Joseph the Worker Award (2005), and the Federation of Catholic Schools Parent Volunteer of the Year (1991).
From 1982 to 2003, Mary and Robert supported their children in delivering The Buffalo News, a venture that not only helped finance their education but also instilled a strong work ethic in the next generation. In a final act of generosity, Mary chose to donate her body to the University at Buffalo’s Anatomical Gift Program, reflecting her lifelong commitment to education and service.
A Mass of Thanksgiving will be celebrated in her honor at 11:00 AM on Saturday, November 8th, at St. Katharine Drexel Parish, 118 Schiller St, Buffalo, NY 14206. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the St. Katharine Drexel Parish Social Justice Committee, continuing Mary’s legacy of compassion and community support.
Mary Lake will be remembered for her boundless love, her dedication to education, and her unwavering commitment to her family and community. She leaves behind a legacy of kindness and service that will inspire all who knew her.
Please leave a message in the Guest Book or upload a photo to the Online Photo Album. Her family and loved ones will cherish these memories and serve as a reminder of the love and joy she brought into the world.
Courtesy of Pietszak Funeral Home
