Mary L. Turk, 83, of Morris, passed away peacefully early Sunday morning, Nov. 20, 2011, at Walnut Grove Nursing Home with her loving family by her side.

Born Jan. 27, 1928, in Lewistown, Mont., Mary was the daughter of S. M. & Addy Elerding Anderson. She received her education in the Morris schools and graduated from Morris High School with the class of 1946.

Mary married A. J. "Gus" Turk in 1953.

She was employed as a receptionist with Tratt Clinic and Ortiz Eye Associates. She was associated with Gay Ortiz as a sales assistant at The City Mouse Boutique on E. Jefferson St. in downtown Morris. She retired in 2003 after more than 10 years as a caregiver with the staff of the Grundy County Home.

Music was her life and she could be found playing the piano that she loved and sharing her  music with the residents of the local nursing homes.

Mary was a sports mom that could be found in attendance at her boys' and grandchildren's games. She enjoyed spending time with her many friends, family and treasured the time she spent with her grandchildren.

She was an active member of the First United Methodist Church and sang with the church choir.

Survivors include her three loving sons, Rick Turk of Morris, Mark (Denise) Turk of Addison, Ill., and Steve Turk of Morris; daughter-in-law, Judy (Molnar) Turk of Houston, Texas; four grandchildren, Sara and Matthew Turk, Jared (Desi) Turk and Jordan Turk; and faithful companion, Calle; along with several nieces and nephews.

Mary was preceded by her parents; one son, Rob Turk, on Jan. 26, 2001; one sister, Elva Maciokas; and one brother, Wayne Anderson.

The family will receive friends from 10 a.m. Saturday Nov. 26, 2011, until the time of memorial services at 1 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church, 118 W. Jackson St., Morris. Rev. Scott McClellan will officiate.

Private family inurnment will take place at Evergreen Cemetery at a later date.

Cremation rites were accorded.

The preferred form of remembrance would be memorial gifts in Mary's memory to Operation St. Nick.

The family would like to express their deep appreciation for the love and care given to their mother by Passages Hospice.

Condolences to the family can be extended online at www.ucdavisandsons.com.

U. C. Davis & Sons Funeral Home Ltd., 301 W. Washington St., Morris, is in charge of arrangements. For more information, call (815) 942-0084.