Obituary of Mary Catherine Boulay

Mary (Tidi) Catherine Boulay was born April 30th, 1948 in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin to Joseph and Elaine Pilon. She was one of nine children. Mary graduated from St. Mary’s Springs Academy in 1966 and attended college at Marian University. She met her soulmate Thomas Boulay at his sister M’Lou’s wedding. After courting her and getting her father’s permission, the two planned their marriage in their hometown of Fond du Lac. They married during a blizzard on December 28th, 1968. Even a blizzard couldn’t stop them. Then they started their life together in Tucson, Arizona. 

Mary finished up her schooling at the University of Arizona and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Education. She taught in San Manuel for a few years and then started her family. She raised three children, Sara, Susan, and Michael. Later she returned to teaching at Bloom Elementary where her kindness and empathy touched the lives of many students. On October 5th, 1996, Mary lost her husband Thomas to a massive stroke that occurred hours before. In the wake of her grief, she found comfort helping others. She was a dedicated volunteer at the Family Attic and made many friends there. 

Mary retired in May 2007, and enjoyed trips with her children, visiting her family in Fond du Lac, playing cards with family, volunteering, and enjoying her home life. Recently, Mary was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia (AML).  She fought hard and although she beat the leukemia, her body was left too weakened despite her strong will and determination. Mary passed away on March 24th, 2018. 

Mary was also blessed with two grandchildren, Jenna and Dan; and great grandchild Jessica. Mary loved, and is loved, by many Pilon and Boulay relatives, her children and their loved ones, and many friends and students. She will be remembered in our hearts for her kind heart, infectious giggle, intelligence, and beauty. She is and will be deeply missed.