Mary Ann Uhrin, age 96 of Hammond, passed away peacefully on July 21, 2024.  She is survived by her cherished children Edward (Francine) Ryann of Schererville, Michael Ryann of Hammond, Nancy (Michael) James of Whitewater, Colorado and Joan (Thomas) Drutis of Highland, granddaughters Genevieve Ryann, Kelly James and Emily Reynolds, great grandchildren Cullen and Marin, as well as many beloved nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her son Andrew Ryann of Chicago.

Mary Ann was one of seven children born to Anna and Stephan Stoyakovich in East Chicago, IN. She was always proud of growing up in the "harbor" and was even more proud of her Croatian heritage. Tamburitzan music and traditional Croatian dishes were plentiful at any family gathering. Her homemade nut roll was world-famous.

She attended East Chicago Washington High School and later sold concessions at the local movie theater, where she ultimately met her future husband, Emil. After her children were a bit older, she began working as a preschool teacher at Woodmar Child Development Center. She cherished this job and her time spent with each and every child. After her retirement, she helped children learn to read as a volunteer with the local Chapter One program.  We are blessed to know that so many children benefitted from her kind heart.

Her family, her faith (she was on a first name basis with the Holy Spirit), and her friendships were sources of great joy and happiness.  She was a faithful member of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church, spending many hours volunteering with CYO volleyball, basketball, and softball, and counting money after mass well into her golden years. Her phone line was regularly tied up by deep conversations with her many friends. Thank goodness for the invention of call-waiting! Her social calendar was always booked with breakfasts and trips to the "boat," where she drew jealousy because of her good luck. She loved all of God's creatures, but dogs brought her true joy. She could often be found with one of the family's dogs snuggled up in her lap or snoozing at her side. They could see her kind heart as well.

She was a true confidant and accepted all who knew and loved her with an open heart. Anyone who met her may have unknowingly become ensnared into an hours-long conversation about their hopes and dreams, leaving the new friend feeling cherished and validated. She served as a role model for all of us, showing us how to treat each other and love ourselves at the same time.

An intentional mother. A loving grandmother and great-grandmother. A devoted wife. An adored teacher. A dear friend. A wise soul. A caring confidant. A charismatic coach. An inspirational leader of multiple generations. Her presence on this earth will be truly missed.

A Funeral Mass will be Celebrated at 10:00 AM on Tuesday, July 30, 2024, DIRECTLY AT Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church, 7132 Arizona Ave, Hammond, IN 46323. Friends may visit with the family at the church from 9:00 AM until time of Mass. Services conclude at the church. Solan Pruzin Funeral Home entrusted with arrangements. In her memory, donations may be made to Franciscan Senior Health & Wellness (PACE) - 2150 Gettler Street, Suite 305, Dyer, Indiana, 46311. ( https://www.franciscanhealth.org/find-a-location/franciscan-senior-health-and-wellness-219104 )