Mary Dragovich, born August 26, 1931, passed away at home on May 26, 2026, surrounded by the love of family and friends. A lifelong resident of Anacortes, Mary's life was deeply woven into the fabric of the community she treasured so dearly.   

   Mary was married to the love of her life, Vince Dragovich, and together they built a home grounded in faith, hard work, resilience, and love. She was a devoted mother to her three children, Kathryn, Michael, and Lynn. During difficult times, when Vince was away fishing to support the family, Mary carried the responsibilities of home and motherhood with remarkable strength and grace. No matter the challenges, she made certain her children were protected and surrounded by love.   

   In her younger years (starting at age 15), Mary worked at the Empire and Island theaters in Anacortes, where she wore many hats as a ticket taker, candy counter attendant, and usherette. She later spent 25 years working aboard the Washington State ferries as a cashier, cook, and waitress, most often serving passengers on the Sidney run. Through every job she held, Mary brought kindness and dependability that left a lasting impression on co-workers and customers.   

   Mary was a founding member of the Anacortes Croatian Club and celebrated her Croatian heritage. She and Vince worked in the Club's kitchen preparing the dinners hosted by the Club several times a year. (And Mary was no stranger to a kitchen; her home-cooked meals, including the Croatian delights she created, made rich memories for her extended family.) Mary and her family also participated in traditional Croatian dancing, celebrating the customs and friendships to help keep their culture alive in Anacortes for future generations.   

   Mary will be remembered most for her gentle spirit, steadfast devotion, and the unconditional love she gave so freely to her family and friends. Her legacy lives on in the lives she nurtured, the traditions she preserved, and the countless memories shared by those who knew and loved her during the past nine decades.   

   Mary is survived by her son, Michael (Mike) of San Francisco, her grandchildren, Matthew Stewart (Tiffany) and Joseph Stewart (Lori) of Mount Vernon, and her great-grandchildren, Marcus and Brandi Stewart.  She is also survived by her sisters, Betty Haney of Anacortes and Linda Olson of Federal Way.   

   An active member of St. Mary's Catholic Church, Mary's faith guided her throughout her life. Her Funeral Services will be held at St. Mary Catholic Church on Wednesday, June 10th with Rosary at 10:30 am, followed by Mass of Christian Burial, Committal at Grand View Cemetery and a Reception following at St. Mary's in Anacortes.   

   In memory of Mary, you can consider donations to either of the following organizations:   
    Lynn Dragovich Music Scholarship Fund with the Anacortes Schools Foundation or the American Croatian Club of Anacortes, 1202A 7th Street, Anacortes, WA 98221.   

   To share memories of Mary, please visit www.evanschapel.com/obituary/mary-dragovich