Mary Elizabeth Preso

Mary Elizabeth Preso passed away peacefully at her home at age 94 on January 14, 2019.

Mary was born December 3, 1924, to Michele “Mike” and Amelia (Deccio) Bughi in Walla Walla. Mary was the 3 ^rd of four children. She graduated from Walla Walla High School. On December 16, 1947, Mary married Lawrence “Larry” Preso at St. Francis Catholic Church. Mom tells us she would walk to mass as a young girl from her home on Wallula Road to sneak a peek at dad, who was serving as altar boy at the time. They shared 67 years of marriage together. Larry farmed and Mary helped him, round-the-clock when necessary. She always made sure plenty of sandwiches and drinks were available for everyone.

Mary had a keen sense of style and worked for many years in clothing retail. Many remember her for the 29 years working at The Bon Marche and later, Macy’s. She loved to help people providing outstanding customer service and always with a beautiful smile. She was not afraid to let customers know when a particular style did not work for them and always had “just the right” item to find for them. Her work integrity was recognized. She also had a passion for home interior design and gardening and taking care of her yard. She was the best hostess. She loved having family and friends come for a visit. She always had food and drink for all.

She hosted many gatherings at her home and memories of each one are cherished, such as to honor our WWll Veterans, tribute to our Walla Walla Sweet Onion growers, family reunions, baby showers, grandchildren graduation parties, wedding receptions, holidays and Sunday family spaghetti and meatball dinners. The aroma of her famous meatballs cooking in spaghetti sauce was heavenly.

Mary was very proud of her Italian heritage and was able to travel with her husband to Italy to visit relatives. Saturday nights were reserved for Mary and Larry to go out together for music and dancing. She was blessed to have many dear friends. Mary was a lifetime member of St. Francis Catholic Church and VFW Ladies Auxiliary.

She is survived by two children, Janice Preso and Lisa (Marty) Reinhardt; two grandchildren, Crystal (Anton) Bushkovskiy and Justin Chiemwichitra of Walla Walla; one great-grandchild, Nikolai Bushkovskiy; sister, Geanice Lester of Marysville, WA; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Her parents; her husband, Larry in 2014; her son, Larry Jr.; brother, Joe Bughi; and sister, Angie Grassi, preceded Maryin death.

A special thank you to Dr. Joanne Perez, Providence St. Mary Home Health, Hospice and caregivers who compassionately provided care to Mary.

Rosary services will be at Herring Groseclose Funeral Home, 315 West Alder on Thursday, Jan. 24, 2019, at 6 p.m. A private family interment will be held Friday, Jan. 25, 2019. There will be a gathering of family and friends on Friday, Jan. 25, 2019 from 1-4 p.m. at 3668 Pranger Road, Walla Walla. Anyone who would like to join us in the celebration of Mary’s life is welcome to come.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Francis Catholic Church or the Blue Mountain Humane Society through Herring Groseclose Funeral Home.