May 5, 1919 – October 5, 2019
Oldest daughter and only living sibling to parents Delores (Mimi) and Andrew DeSoto, with one sister Carol Rudluff, and four brothers Ray, Ralph, Albert and David DeSoto.
In 1939 she married the love of her life Benny Ottis Bawcum, where they raised and were proud of their three children Marveen Sorensen, Brian Bawcum, and Jeanie Klotzer, plus 15 grandchildren, 38 great grandchildren, and 17 great-great grandchildren. They moved to the Central Valley and lived in the Hilmar area since 1947. Mary was active in and a member of Hilmar Horsemen’s Club, Prairie Flower Church, the P.T.A., March of Dimes, campaigned for Merced County Proposition 13, was an Avon lady, and Hilmar High School’s first Football Mother who was instrumental in raising money for a new football scoreboard.
After almost 63 years of marriage and her husband passing away in April of 2002, Mary was still interested in politics, local and professional sports, and mostly her family. In her 90’s she went to live at Paramount Retirement facility.
The family would like to thank the staff at Brandel Manor for the wonderful care they gave to Mary.
A memorial service will be held at 2pm on Monday, October 14 at Allen Mortuary, 247 N. Broadway in Turlock. Burial will be private at North Hilmar Cemetery.
Memorial contributions in Mary’s Honor can be made to Hilmar High School Athletics Boosters P.O. Box 1288 Hilmar, CA 95324, or to a charity of your choosing.
Condolence(1)-
Amber says
October 12, 2019 at 4:15 amSuch a sweet lady Mary was.. always enjoyed talking/taking care of her during her stay at Brandel.. will always have a special place in my heart for her.. Rest Easy Mary.. see you again someday