So. Burlington

It is with profound sadness that the family of Mary Wicks (Kusiak) announce her passing on Wednesday September 9, 2025.

Born to Dr. Rollo Wicks and Hazel Wicks on March 26, 1945, Mary had a happy childhood in Canton, New York. She attended St. Lawrence University where she earned a degree in education.

She moved to South Burlington, Vermont and taught second and fourth grades in Colchester and Winooski. She was named teacher of the year in Vermont twice.

She was an active runner and participated in triathlons. Always in service to those in need, Mary volunteered in several capacities: walking dogs at the shelter, rescuing cats, feeding wildlife in her backyard, running a flea market to raise money for animal rescue groups, and volunteering at homeless shelters.

She was an active member of the Essex Alliance Church, where she taught Sunday school and helped with the Night to Shine graduation prom

Mary was predeceased by her sister, Carol Kuenzel Wicks, brother-in-law Fred Kuenzel, and niece Elizabeth Kuenzel Snell.

She is survived by her brothers, Frank Wicks, Sr. (Dawn), Paul Wicks (Barbara); her nieces, Sarah Kuenzel Castner, Katherine Poulin (Robert), Linda Wicks, and Allison Wicks; and her nephew, Frank Wicks, Jr. She is also survived by her great nieces and nephews, Trevor Snell, Lennay Carol Mann(Kory), Zachary Paul Castner, Elizabeth Poulin, Abigail Poulin; and by her great-great nephews Logan and Brody Mann. Her cat Sweetpea has already endeared himself with the neighbor and will settle in soon.

The family is so grateful for her wonderful neighbors, Dale and Wanda who supported her and adored her as much as we do. A special thanks to the UVM Medical staff for providing excellent care to our cherished Mary.

Please join us for a Celebration of Mary's life this Friday, September 19, at 2:00 p.m. at Essex Alliance Church, 37 Old Stage Rd., Essex. Arrangements are in care of LaVigne Funeral & Cremation Service. To send condolences to her family please visit www.vtfuneralhomes.com.