Mary Shalgian Obituary in Rockland at Magoun-Biggins

Obituaries

Mary Shalgian

Passed 05/21/2023

Obituary For Mary Shalgian

SHALGIAN, Mary (Peckham), 75, of Hanover and West Harwich, formerly of Rockland, passed away peacefully on May 21, 2023, after a brief battle with leukemia. Mary was the beloved wife and best friend of the late Robert (Bob) Shalgian and she was the devoted mother to Christian Shalgian and Graham Shalgian. She is survived by Christian and his wife Cheryl of Germantown, MD, and Graham and his wife Noreen McMahon of Braintree, MA. She was the loving and beloved “Meme” to her grandchildren Margie, Peter, Julie, Ellie, Abby and Danny. She leaves her sister Anne Marie Russell and her husband, Terry of West Harwich, and her brother David Peckham and his wife, Heidi of Orlando, Florida, as well as many well-loved nieces and nephews. Mary was pre-deceased by her brother John M. Peckham III of Boston and her parents, Dr. John M. and Alice Peckham (Gelinas).

Mary, a native of Rockland, MA, attended the Holy Family School and Cardinal Spellman High School. She graduated from Emmanuel College in Boston where she developed life-long friendships and deepened her strong faith in God. Mary’s faith meant everything to her and gave her strength throughout her life. As a dedicated teacher at the Cedar Elementary School in Hanover, MA, Mary was beloved by her students and colleagues. Mary held her family and her many friends close to her heart, sharing with them her love of Cape Cod, travel, bike riding, and brightly colored scarves. She was a talented photographer, with a zeal for life and left us countless books that chronicled her joy filled adventures with family and friends.

The Shalgian family welcomes friends and loved ones to pay their respects on May 29, 2023 at the Magoun-Biggins Funeral Home 135 Union St. Rockland from 4:30PM-8:00 PM. A funeral Mass celebrating Mary’s life will be held on May 30, 2023 at 11:00 AM at the Holy Family Church, 403 Union Street, Rockland. Burial will be private. Donations in her memory may be made to the St. Vincent DePaul Society, 403 Union Street, Rockland, MA 02370.

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Condolences

06/06/2023

Karen Wasielewski

I met Mary in 1984 when I went to work for Bob. They were such a kind, inspiring couple. I loved hearing their adventures (the camel!). I hope it gives some comfort knowing that they are together. Karen O'Handley Wasielewski
06/01/2023

Maureen Feely

I was saddened today to find out this beautiful human being, inside and out, had passed away. It doesn't seem like that long ago we were chatting in the church parking lot and she was asking for my daughter, by name, although it had been 18 years since having her in class. My daughter will be heartbroken when I tell her, she loved her.
05/29/2023

Richard and Pam Fitzmaurice

Any story about Mary has to include her incredible Kindness. I met Mary during the Summer of 1967. In Frisco and the West Coast it was the so called "Summer of Love". On Cape Cod we were just enjoying college co-ed life, beaches, friendship and the wonderful music of the era. During that time I experienced a personal issue causing me concern. Mary took me under wing and helped me see my way through it. She would truly do anything for any friend or acquaintance. Among my roommates that summer was my very close friend Bob Shalgian, Mary's future husband of course. I suspect that is why she joined our 5 Williams Road group so often. She could foresee the amazing relationship about to unfold. All who have had the honor to know Mary and Bob surely only have admiration that such Soulmates found each other to share and a beautiful life and Family together. It certainly represents a "Match Made In Heaven". And so it is. Deepest Sympathy. Rest In Peace. Fitzie and Pam
05/29/2023

Natalie Boden

Sending my heartfelt condolences to the Shalgian family. I am sorry for your loss.
05/27/2023

Charlie Tretter

To Graham, Sending you and your family my sympathy and condolences during this difficult time. Charlie Tretter
05/25/2023

Deb Tully

We will miss seeing Mary very much on her daily walks in our Hanover Elm's community. She was a lovely person. So sorry, Bob & Deb Tully
05/25/2023

Deb Tully
05/24/2023

Robert Connors

To the Peckham and Shalgian families. I want to express my condolences. I grew up on Myrtle st. And Doctor Peckham was our family doctor. Although Mary was older than me I remember her for kindness. I will never forget the kindness of Doctor Peckham and his family. Rest in peace Mary
05/24/2023

Carol Smith

She was such a beautiful positive light in this World. She lived a life of grace and dignity and laughter and compassion. Our camera club will not be the same without her. I'm honored to have had her in my life.
05/23/2023

Sue

I worked with Mary for a couple of years at Cedar School before she retired to be with Bob. She was such a warm and caring person and a great teacher. The world is a little less bright without her.
05/23/2023

Judy Long

Mary was the nicest person I ever knew. She gave to everyone from her heart.We've shared laughter and tears.I shall miss her so very very much.
05/23/2023

Mary-Beth Taylor

She was the most amazing person.... finding the best in people. I was honored to call her friend and laugh and laugh with her. As she loved her friends, her boys and their families were always front and center. She always wanted to make life easier for them. She was a force of love in the world. Thank you for being my friend.

Tributes

Ginny Castro planted 5 trees in memory of Mary Shalgian . - May 29, 2023
Michael & Elizabeth Mingolelli planted 10 trees in memory of Mary Shalgian . - May 28, 2023