In Loving Memory of Mary Nicholas

Mary Nicholas, formerly of Los Altos, passed away peacefully on December 5th, 2023, surrounded by her loving family.

Born on August 15th, 1936, in Viljevo, Osijek-Baranja County, Croatia, formerly Yugoslavia, to Ivan and Reza Knezevic. By the time Mary was five years old, war had reached not only her country, but her home itself. It was an early and difficult experience that would affect her both positively and negatively for the rest of her life. Mary's journey led her across continents, arriving in Cupertino California, in May of 1955. On October 6th, 1956, she married the love of her life, Ned Sr., and together they built a life filled with love and cherished memories in Los Altos Hills.

Preceded in death by her beloved husband Ned, Mary is survived by her devoted son Nick, his wife Angie, and son Joseph; son Ned Jr., his wife Katie, and daughters Mary and Mila; daughter Anna, her husband Jeff, and daughters Nikki, Leigh, and Jenna. Mary had very strong religious beliefs. She was a devout Catholic, and could often be found praying during long car trips, or just sitting at home. She always carried her Rosary with her, and would always pray for anyone in need. She was very proud that all her children were confirmed in the Catholic church, a tradition that was later fulfilled by several of her grandchildren. For a majority of her life, Mary spent every Sunday morning in mass, seated in the second pew alongside her sister Ana, called "Dvije Sestre" by the church community.

One of the most enchanting memories shared by those who knew Mary and Ned Sr. was their waltzing elegance. When they danced, it was as if they were floating on a cloud, creating a magical spectacle that captivated everyone in the dance hall. The sheer grace and love they exhibited on the dance floor became a symbol of their enduring connection, and the memory of those waltzes will forever be etched in the hearts of those who witnessed them.

Where Mary shined most was in her kitchen, especially when it came to her famous Christmas Eve parties. Mary and Ned Sr. would invite approximately 200 of their closest friends and family to commemorate the holiday season. Preparation for her Christmas Eve meal started in the late summer and right up until she had to start on the main dishes just two or three days before Christmas Eve. With sisters Reza, Ana, and later daughter Anna, she would bake countless plates of cookies for the party and for guests to take home. She would also bake her own bread, which would wake up everybody in the house as she started pounding dough on the kitchen table at about 7am. The main courses included Bakalar, which only Mary could turn dried cod into a delicious delicacy for all. Her Sauerkraut with kobasice and Prosciutto was second to none, along with Sarma, and a roast beef that sometimes could be eaten with just a fork, if the cow did his job.

Mary loved people. She loved feeding people, she loved helping people, she loved supporting people in any way she could. Whether a kind word, a simple prayer, or giving her time and assistance. She did anything and everything she was capable of to help someone out. Beyond her roles as a wife, mother, and grandmother, Mary absolutely adored her grandchildren and would move Heaven and Earth for them to feel loved.

Mary Nicholas will be remembered for her kindness, warmth, and the enduring love she shared with her family and friends. May she rest in peace, and may her memory continue to bring comfort to those who knew and loved her.