Cherish Every Moment of Your Life

Mary Anne was a friend of mine.

I use to worked for the coffee house in Durand, Hearth & Garden. I served Mary Anne her coffee (with 4 extra shots of espresso!) - she was one the "regulars." She'd walk in...bringing her own coffee mug. I'd rinse and wash it for her and fill it full of her favorite - Irish Nut coffee. I went to Hearth and Garden yesterday and reminisced about Mary Anne with one of the owners, Debbie Lindroth. I had a "Irish Nut" without the extra shots along with some apple bars. Debbie and I had a good talk.

I miss you, Mary Anne - you could always make me laugh.

God bless you and may He comfort your family.

MARY ANNE DRAGO

Age: 56 - Loves Park, Illinois

Taken from the Rockford Register Star

Mary Anne Drago, 56, of Loves Park died Monday, Nov. 16, 2009, after an automobile accident. She was born Oct. 24, 1953, in Rockford to Jasper and Frances Drago. She lived most of her life in Rockford. She was employed as a special education school teacher by Durand School District. She was a member of St. Anthony Church. Mary Anne attended Muldoon High School before transferring to Boylan High School, where she graduated in 1971. She received her bachelor's degree in special education from Clarke College in 1975; she then received her master's degree in educational/psychological studies from the University of Colorado in 1988. Her teaching career brought her to Wisconsin, Colorado and finally to the Durand district here in Illinois. She was a very dedicated teacher who touched many students, faculty and parents. She loved the Beatles, Neil Young and the Blues. She took pride in her Italian heritage and her family. Mary Anne was a devoted daughter and beloved friend to all who knew her. Survivors include father, Jasper Drago; and many cousins. She was predeceased by her mom, Frances; and her beloved dog, Hershey.

Mass will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 21, in St. Anthony Catholic Church, with visitation from 9 a.m. to service time; the Franciscan Friars will officiate. Interment in Calvary Cemetery. Visitation also from 5 to 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 20, in Gasparini and Oliveri Funeral Home, 707 Marchesano Drive.

Condolences may be sent online at gasparinioliverifuneral.net

'til next time,

Con