Mary Wachter was a saint - Living in service to everyone around her and sharing her warmth through her cooking and her care. Raising two boys on her own while spending 60 hours a week tending to those in need, she was truly a force to be reckoned with. Mary passed away peacefully on the morning of April 22, 2026, surrounded by love. The night prior she enjoyed dinner with her local son Brian, his wife Leah, and her 4 grandchildren, and had recently spent 11 days with her visiting son Tom and her beloved cousin. She remained independent and happy in her home, living a long and beautiful life full of love. Her family remembers her for her kindness, warmth, humor that was equal parts sarcasm and pith, and devoted service to her family, friends, and community. Her full obituary is posted below.

Mary’s passion for gardening was her emotional outlet, and she cultivated beautiful gardens at every home she lived in until her passing at 81. She could often be found on her gardening bench with a spade, two gloves, and a smile, tending to her plants and finding peace in the soil. In lieu of care packages or flowers, the family asks that donations be made to plant a memorial tree in a local park, creating a peaceful place of reflection for all who loved Mary and even those who never knew her.

The funds raised will help plant a tree, and possibly a bench and plaque, providing a lasting legacy and a place for future generations to gather their thoughts. As the saying goes, you start to understand life once you plant shade trees under which you may never sit. Your support will help honor Mary’s memory and create a space that continues her spirit of kindness and care.

Full Obituary:

Mary Wachter, a registered nurse who cared for patients and whose patience helped her raise two inquisitive boys, passed away peacefully April 22 at her home in St. Clair Shores. She was 81.

Born Mary Kathryn Tanczyn in Baltimore, Maryland on July 15, 1944 to Harry Tanczyn and the former Alice Lynn, she was a dedicated nurse for more than 50 years who spent most of her career as a perioperative nurse in the operating room at the Grosse Pointe hospital long known as Bon Secours. Her intelligence and generous spirit won the respect, admiration and affection of colleagues and patients, though her famous brownies were reserved for family, friends and operating room potlucks.

Mary was a beloved and trusted adviser on medical matters to those who turned to her for guidance, support, and a reassuring voice. Her care extended far beyond hospital walls, and many people were comforted by her wisdom and compassion.

Service to others defined Mary’s life, and she gave herself fully to family, friends, and community in ways that will never be forgotten. She was the eldest of six children and embraced that role with strength and care throughout her life. Her beloved husband Thomas Joseph Wachter died in 1986. They shared a life built on love, family, and devotion, a legacy Mary carried on as she raised their sons Brian and Tom.

Mary loved gardening and took great joy in watching things grow and bloom. She enjoyed crafting and appreciated the satisfaction of creating something by hand. She found happiness in the simple and meaningful pleasures of life. Every year, she looked forward to traveling Up North to the family cottage on Burt Lake, a place that held special meaning for her and offered peace, reflection, and cherished memories. These traditions became part of the rhythm of her life and were among the many things that brought her contentment.

Family was at the center of Mary’s life, and she valued the many connections she maintained with relatives. She also loved to visit her son Tom wherever life took him, always making the effort to stay close and share in the moments that mattered.

Sunday dinners at her home were both simple and spectacular, with at least two main courses, several side dishes and multiple dessert options punctuated by the exuberance of her beloved grandchildren and extended family. These gatherings were bookended by convivial conversation in her comfortable living room.

Survivors include her sons Brian (Leah Dantzer) and Tom Wachter (April Christensen), and grandchildren Virginia, June, Conrad, and Abraham, each of whom brought her immense pride and joy. Mary cherished every moment spent with them and treasured the special bond she shared with each grandchild.

She was preceded in death by her brother, John Tanczyn, and sister, Denise Arnett. She is survived by her brother, Michael Tanczyn. She loved spending time with Denise and Michael, and their close relationship was a source of comfort and joy.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, May 1 at Chas. Verheyden funeral home, 16300 Mack, Grosse Pointe Park.

The family will receive guests at 10 a.m. The service will start at 10:30 a.m.

Share memories of Mary with her family at Verheyden.org.