With great sadness we announce the death of Mary Satterfield (nee Rittich), wife of Peter (aka Norman) for 64 years, and mother of David (Gloria), Mike (Leslie), Kathy and Terre (Leslie R); grandmother to Stephen, Matthew, William, Patrick, Alexander, Geoffrey, and Christopher; and Aunt Mary to 12 nieces and nephews, all of whom she loved dearly. She was predeceased by her parents Tibor and Paula, brother Eugene and his wife Maureen, brother Andrew (Kathy). A bright light in our lives has gone out.

Mary had an active career in social work and law, earning her MSW from the School of Social Work, St. Patrick’s College, University of Ottawa. She later graduated from Osgoode Hall Law School, and began a second career in law after being called to the Ontario Bar on her 52nd birthday. Mary was a passionate advocate for the just treatment of women under the law and the reform of family law; her significant contributions to the practice of mediation and arbitration included training and mentoring many in the field.

Mary believed strongly in the celebration and support of family, and loved the adventure of life with Peter. She was a fierce and loyal friend, and was widely known for helping others tackle and demystify daunting obstacles. Few who met her failed to notice her pervasive optimism and radiant smile, as well as her iron will, clarity of thought and innate pragmatism. She and Peter were always up for a game of tennis, a long walk along many shores, and travel whenever and wherever possible. Most who met her, never forgot her. We will miss her more than we can say.

There will be visitation beforehand on the 27th of September at Turner and Porter Yorke Chapel, 2357 Bloor Street West, 2-4pm and 6-9pm. A mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at St. Pius X Church, 2305 Bloor Street West on September 28th at 11am. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to: the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul, St. Pius X Conference, Toronto, or Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Palliative Care Program Fund.