Mary Simone Dressler Passed away February 8, 1999. She was born in Girardsville, Pennsylvania, on April 19, 1908 to Carlo and Maria Antoinette Dragonetti, who had immigrated from the province of Calabria, Italy. Her parents relocated and farmed in Fredrickson, where Mary attended and graduated from Clover Creek School. Last spring, with her son Sam, she attended Clover Creek's 75th anniversary. She was the oldest living graduate. Mary was the oldest of the three children. Her two sisters, Stella Gillum and Rose Storino, preceded her in death. In 1924 she married Vitale Simone, who had returned from the war in Italy. Vitale and Mary located in Tacoma and had five children: Vincent Simone (wife Patricia) of Maple Valley, Connie Huber (husband Bill) of Tacoma, Toni Martin (husband Andy) of Tacoma, Sam Simone (wife Jo) of Seattle, and Barbara Brooks (husband Ray) of Tacoma. After being widowed in 1972, she later married Charles Dressler in 1979. He passed away in 1985. Mary was very active in St. Ann's Altar Society and their senior programs. She was a lifetime member and officer in the Sons of Italy Lodge, which observes Italian culture. Mary was very proud of her 16 grandchildren and 24 great-grandchildren, with whom she kept in contact through frequent holiday get-togethers, for which she prepared her favorite Italian dishes. Last April, Mary celebrated her 90th birthday at Verranzos and was joined by her family, and her niece and nephew, Rosie Storino and Frank Belvedere. At last year's family Christmas party, Mary was joined in song and activities by her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Mary held on to the old-country values of her folks, gardening and farming, up to her death with the help and support of her daughters. She was happy, healthy and active until the night she passed away peacefully in her sleep at home. The family invites you to a memorial Mass, which will be celebrated at St. Ann's Catholic Church (72nd and Park Avenue) on Saturday, February 27th at 10:00 a.m. A reception will follow. The family suggests that remembrances be made to your favorite charity. Arrangements by Piper-Morley-Mellinger Funeral Directors, 472-3353. Pub Date: 2/17/1999 Tacoma News Tribune