Mary Vandenbergh

Mary had a fierce love of life from an early age growing up in the Biltmore neighborhood of Barrington. Summers on Honey Lake and adventures with friends created a love of nature, friends, and family that was a core part of her life. Mary spent the first 30+ years of her career at Motorola traveling the world in many different roles. After a brief retirement from Motorola, she joined St. Viator as the Executive Director of Advancement where she found her passion helping students find their potential.

Mary had a special connection with animals which always brought her joy. She loved gardening and could often be found tending her plants and birdfeeders. Often known as the Energizer Bunny, it was rare to find her sitting still, yet she always had time for family and friends and an ability to make you feel like you were the most important person in the world when you were with her. Mary was a wonderful sounding board, a source of strength and advice, and an inspiration to her family. Her kindness, ability to always see the best in others, and that smile that could light up a room will always be remembered.
Mary is survived by her husband John; son, Ryan (Lauren) Bergstrom; John’s children, Amy (John) Parks, and Matthew (Elida) Vandenbergh; grandchildren, Luke and Claire Bergstrom, Henry and Hailey Parks, and Niklas and Elin Vandenbergh; mother, Janice Maher; sister Lynn Maher; brothers, Michael (Anita) Maher, Tim (Deb) Maher, and Scott (Donna) Maher; and her mother in law Lorraine Vandenbergh. She was preceded in death by her father.

Memorial services for Mary will be held 10:30am Saturday, April 8th at St. Anne Catholic Church, 120 N. Ela Street (corner of Franklin and Ela Streets), Barrington. There will be a reception at Biltmore Country Club following the mass.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to: St. Viator High School Scholarships and Grants Program, St. Viator High School, 1213 E. Oakton St, Arlington Heights, IL 60004.