Mary Esther Komar

Mary “The Queen” Esther Komar passed away on Sunday June 4, 2023, is now reunited with her beloved husband, John, who preceded her in death (1999).

Mary was born to Peter and Emma Freisen on June 22, 1934, in Youngstown, Ohio. Mary was

raised by her mother, Emma, with her three older sisters, Joan, Arlene, and Donna during the

Great Depression. Her father Peter passed away when she was only 14 months old. Leaning on

her faith in God, and following the examples of tenacity, perseverance, fortitude, and kindness

instilled in her by her widowed mother, Mary provided an anchoring strength upon which she

and John started a family and built a successful business. Together, they raised five beautiful

children.

With sharp intelligence, teamwork, and determination, Mary and John started a small plumbing

shop, Komar Plumbing, in their home. With their partner, dearest friend, and confidant, Jim

Grantz, they built it into a thriving and successful business that continues to play an important

role in the Mahoning Valley today.

Mary believed it was critical to help others in need. Her philanthropy was rooted in Matthew 6:3,

“When you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing.” She

was thoughtful and generous with her community and those in need. Her generosity was quiet

but impactful, the way she and John wanted it, and the example she set is carried forward in the

same spirit and light by her children and grandchildren. Mary served on the St. Elizabeth

Auxiliary Board, was deeply involved in the founding and leadership of St. Joseph’s Parish and

was an active benefactor to both St. Vincent DePaul and Salvation Army, amongst others.

Mary took great pride in, and truly enjoyed decorating her house to the nines for every holiday

and season. She hosted Christmas parties so festive that Santa himself would pay a visit,

delighting her grandchildren. She was a patient and steadfast gardener, particularly fond of her

pond and its very large Koi. She was constantly looking for ways to make it more intricate and

beautiful. She always looked forward to browsing all the newest catalogs, trying to maintain her

elegant style.

Mary enjoyed the company of many pets throughout her life. Whether beautiful, lanky, and aloof

Siamese cats, or beloved Schnauzers and Boxers, Mary doted on her four-legged family

members.

Mary was incredibly proud of her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. She loved to

joke, indulge them (with candy jars, gifts, and treats), and was always up for a card game – the

Skip Bo cards within easy reach. With her quiet and fierce determination, The Queen

encouraged everyone, most especially her grandchildren, to work hard, and supported them

through their triumphs, challenges, and losses.

Mary is survived by her children, Patty Vivalo (Jeff), Susan Komar, Carol Vadino (Rick), Kathy

Anderson (Tom), and John Paul Komar. Her grandchildren, John Vivalo (Julie), Katie Vivalo

Rouse (Doug), Jacqui Drescher (Matt), Stephanie Freese (Bill), Lawrence Anderson (Mandy),

Kristi Stambaugh (Chris), Carolyn Vadino (Earl), Richelle Short (Travis), Paul Brown (Laura),

Diana Sustar (Chris), Curtis Anderson, Elise Anderson (Shawn), and her 17 great

grandchildren.

Mary was preceded in death by her beloved husband, John Komar. Her sisters Joan Mulloy,

Arlene Carney, and Donna Zimmer. And her loving parents, Peter and Emma Freisen.

The Queen leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire us all and will forever be in our

hearts.

The family kindly requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Salvation Army of

Youngstown (PO Box 6144, Youngstown, OH 44501 or on their website) or Crossroads Hospice

( 1742 Georgetown Rd, Hudson, OH 44236).

Family and friends may call from 9 a.m. to 10:20 a.m. Monday June 12, 2023, at St. Dominic Church 77 E. Lucius Ave. Youngstown, 44507.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:30 a.m. at church celebrated by Rev. Vincent De Lucia O.P. and concelebrated by Rev. Bernard Confer O.P.

Interment will follow at Resurrection Cemetery.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Edward J. Fox & Sons Funeral Home, 4700 Market St. Boardman.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Mary Esther Komar, please visit our floral store.