Mary Louise Ott

Mary Louise Ott of Cheney, a retired social worker and secretary, died peacefully in her home on Dec. 23.

MaryLu was born July 4, 1928 in Coeur' d Alene, Idaho to Henry and Martha (James) Ott. She lived in Coeur d'Alene and attended school there until 1935 when the family moved to Clarkston, Wash. She graduated from Holy Family Catholic School and Clarkston High. After graduation she worked at the telephone office until starting her family. A 1948 marriage to Thomas R. Polillo ended in 1968.

In 1970 she received her office management and secretarial degree from Lewis Clark State College and was hired as secretary to the dean of students. She married Leo Foster in August 1972 and continued working in secretarial positions. In 1979, along with her husband, she co-managed the Nedry and Linden Court Apartments until 1990. In 1980 MaryLu was also hired as supervisor for Senior Home Care until her retirement in 1992. In 1997 she moved to Post Falls, Idaho.

She enjoyed visiting with her family and grandchildren, reading, fishing, camping, touring, working in her gardens and cooking. Her sense of humor and ingenuity kept us all in stitches.

She was preceded in death by her parents, one son, one brother and one sister. She is survived by sons Richard Polillo of Spokane, Ronald Polillo (Laura) of O'Fallon, Ill., Stephen Polillo (Karla) of Bremerton, Wash., daughter Martha Lauber (David) of Cheney, 10 grandchildren and seven great grandchildren.

Her family would like to thank the amazing staff at Cheney Assisted Living. They are truly walking angels here on earth. Too many to name for fear of leaving someone out, they are all incredible. Some were careful to even make sure she had her TV on for football games and Gonzaga basketball games.

Per her wishes she will be cremated and her final resting place will be with her family. They will celebrate her life in a private ceremony at a later date. Memorials may be sent to St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church in Cheney.

Cheney Funeral Chapel is in charge of arrangements. Visit MaryLu's online guest book at cheneyfuneral.com.