Mary Biediger Helm Marek, 81, died on April 11, 2017, in Midland, Texas, after a long illness. She was born in Ysleta, Texas, on June 18, 1935. She moved to Marfa, Texas, as a young child, where she and her three brothers enjoyed life in a small town under the big sky of far west Texas. Mary maintained a home base in Marfa even after marrying and moving away.Mary spent her adult life in west Texas and eastern New Mexico. In addition to raising her three children, she worked as an executive assistant and, later, a teacher in Midland, Texas. After achieving her bachelor’s and master’s degrees, Mary married a longtime family friend, Bruce Marek, of Pierce, Texas. Her new life on the farm in south Texas provided unending fun for her grandchildren. Mary met the world with vim and vigor every day, expecting adventure to happen. She was known for her hospitality to both friend and stranger.Mary returned to Midland in the last two years of her life. Her sweet character shone through to everyone she encountered. Faith in a gracious God sustained her throughout her life. She embodied the call to be light and love in this world.Mary is survived by her children and their spouses: Joy Helm Cobb, Steve Cobb, Ron Helm, Janet Gieb Helm, Joni Helm Powers and Tim Powers; Janice Marek Gensler and her husband Gary Gensler were caring stepchildren for almost 20 years; grandchildren include Naomi Cobb, Abby Cobb Christensen, Kevin Christensen, Zac Cobb, Hannah Powers and Kate Powers. She is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.She was predeceased in death by her husband, Bruce Marek. In addition, she was predeceased by her parents, Harold and Azile Biediger, and her brothers, Harold Biediger, Jr., Bill Biediger and Pat Biediger.The family extends sincere thanks to the staff at the Bluebonnet Wing of the Mabee Center of Manor Park in Midland, Texas. Their loving care of Mary was unceasing. We honor the dedicated service the staff provided every single day.A memorial service will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, April 15, 2017 in the chapel of the First Baptist Church of Midland, Texas. The chapel is located on the southeast corner of the church at the intersection of Louisiana and N streets. In lieu of flowers, the family asks donations be made to Hospice of Midland, 911 W. Texas, Midland, Texas 79701.Arrangements are under the direction of Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home & Crematory of Midland. Online condolences may be made at www.npwelch.com.,
