Obituary of Mary Ann (nee Bickert) Mesler

MaryAnn, affectionately known as Bicky, was born in 1937, the oldest of 8 children. At the age of 16, she began working for attorneys in downtown Buffalo. She met the love of her life, Don in 1954 and, after his time overseas in the Air Force, they wedded in 1955 beginning their journey together. They made their home in Depew and she became a mom of 4. She loved her children well and beamed with pride for each. After moving to Ohio & New Hampshire they finally settled back in Cheektowaga. She, Don and family ran The Islander Restaurant in Grand Island for nearly 25 years. MaryAnn was well known for her ready smile and delicious pies! The patrons became a second family to her. She was a longtime member of Hillview Baptist Church; always happy to serve in any capacity. Perhaps her favorite was teaching Sunday School and being on the Missions Committee. Her love for the Lord was evident and she wanted to share that with others. She shared her exuberance and joy with others by showering them with cards, full of love and stickers! Her passion to make others aware they were loved and cared for was evident. She was always up for games and friendly competition! Her card playing was top notch, earning her the nickname Grandma Hoyle! Her favorite titles however were Gram, Grammie and GiGi. Her “grands” and “great grands” filled her with gladness. For years, her home was opened graciously to hold treasured family gatherings. She was willing to share all she had to brighten someone’s day. She cared deeply for her family and friends, praying over them daily. Through many years of physical struggles, she continued to be grateful and revel in God’s goodness to her. MaryAnn was born to the late Charles and Madeline Bickert. She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Donald Mesler, son Dean Mesler, and siblings Charles, Frank, Edward, Timmy and Tommy Bickert and Barbara Brzozowski. She is survived by her beloved children Terre (Esther) Mesler, Donald Mesler, Marcy (Joe) Craddock and dear daughter in law Annette Mesler. She was loving grandmother to Jacob (Lynette) Mesler, Nicholas (Elizabeth) Mesler, Kelly and Jamie Mesler, Eric, Noah and Laura Craddock. She was cherished GiGi to Ferryn, Iver, Carter, Bennett and Reed; Dear sister of Donald (Donna) Bickert. She leaves behind many nieces, nephews and friends. Visitation in the Cichon-Borgosz Funeral Home Inc. 4929 Broadway, Depew Friday, September 13, 2024 3-6 PM with a service immediately following. Relatives and friends are welcome. MaryAnn was a longtime member of Hillview Baptist Church. Flowers gratefully declined