Mary Louise Shiwarski

Mary Louise (Luczak) Shiwarski, 94, formerly of Carnegie, passed away peacefully on June 11, 2026, surrounded by her loving family. Born on October 28, 1931, in Pittsburgh, she was the daughter of the late John and Mary Catherine (Plaiscjak) Luczak. She was also preceded in death by her beloved husband of 62 years, John “Bam” Shiwarski, and her sister, Katherine Demor.

Mary graduated as salutatorian of St. Mary’s High School in McKees Rocks and enjoyed a long career that included Bell Telephone, Mellon Bank, and several local businesses before retiring from Creative Safety in 2009. A woman of strong faith, she was an active member of Holy Trinity Church in Carnegie and later Archangel Gabriel Parish, where she devoted countless hours to volunteering and serving her church community.

Mary’s greatest joy was her family. She is survived by her sons, Ron (Debbie Fisher) Shiwarski and Gary (Marianne Mercuri) Shiwarski; her grandchildren, Krista (Ryan Campbell), Ashley (Andrew Rafalski), Dan (Cary Boyd) Shiwarski, Heather (Jonathan Henrici), and Shaina Shiwarski; and her cherished great-grandchildren, Piper, Nolan, twins Eli and Weston, Marley, and Henley, who affectionately refer to her as “GG.”

Mary never missed an opportunity to be there for the people she loved. More than just a grandmother, she was a constant and cherished presence in her grandchildren’s lives. She was their biggest supporter, trusted confidante, and dear friend. Known simply as “Gram,” not only to her grandchildren but also to the many friends she welcomed as family.

Whether she was cheering from the stands at a ball field, sitting rink-side at a hockey game, or traveling near and far to support her family, Gram was always there. She celebrated every achievement, big or small, and rarely missed a game, event, or milestone. From shopping trips, to bachelorette parties, weddings, the births of her great-grandchildren, and everything in between, she was part of it all. Her presence brought joy, comfort, and encouragement, and the memories she created will be treasured forever.

Mary possessed a remarkable intellect, a natural beauty ( Oil of Olay is the secret), and a quiet strength that inspired those around her. She had a quick wit, and an endless curiosity about the world. Even into her final moments, her mind remained sharp, her memory impressive, and her desire to learn undiminished. Though she came of age in a time when opportunities for women were often more limited, she demonstrated every day that intelligence is measured not by titles or accolades, but by how one lives. She approached life with curiosity and a genuine interest in others and the world around her. Never one to sugarcoat the truth, she was known for offering honest advice, given as a shot of truth always chased with love. Her wisdom, independence, and unwavering support made her the family’s biggest cheerleader, trusted confidante, and guiding light.

Mary had an adventurous spirit and a passion for travel. Family often joked that she would go anywhere, even “a coal miners’ convention in Cecil,” if it meant seeing something new or spending time with people she cared about. A geography whiz with an incredible sense of direction, she could often navigate routes from memory and was always ready for the next adventure, reading every road side along the way!

Mary enjoyed baking, which made holidays with her especially memorable. Her love language was feeding people, and no one ever left her home hungry. Whether it was her famous cheesecake, a tray of holiday cookies or poppyseed cake, broccoli soup or a Thanksgiving turkey prepared with care, she found joy in bringing people together around the table. She also enjoyed puzzles, and watching Jeopardy….often knowing the answers before the contestants. A devoted Pittsburgh sports fan, you could often find her with the “game on” avidly watching her hometown teams through every season.

The last few years of Mary’s life were spent at the Apple Blossom community, which proved to be a true blessing. Her family would like to extend heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Apple Blossom for the exceptional care, kindness, and compassion they provided Mary during this time. Their dedication brought comfort not only to Mary, but to her entire family.

Mary’s legacy lives on through the family she nurtured, the faith she practiced, and the countless lives she touched. Her love, wisdom, and unwavering presence will continue to guide those who were fortunate enough to know her. She will be deeply missed, forever loved, and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Family and friends will be received on Sunday, June 14, 2026, from 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Pittsburgh Cremation & Funeral Care, 5405 Steubenville Pike, Robinson Township, PA 15136. There will be a gathering at the funeral home at 10:00 am for final respects, followed by a procession to church. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 am on Monday, June 15, 2026, at Holy Trinity Ukrainian Catholic Church, 730 Washington Ave. Carnegie, PA 15106. Interment will follow at Holy Trinity Catholic Cemetery, Collier Township