Maria Wilhelmina Corby

Mom passed away in the home she created over 50 years ago on Nov 14, 2019 in Tacoma, WA. She fought long and hard to stay here for her kids, grandkids and great-grandkids. She was scrappy, fiesty and was loved very hard by her family and friends.

She is survived by her daughters Judie Friend Annese (Raymond), Sylvia Rowland (William), her son Glenn Corby (Heidi) and Oma to her grandchildren Nakai Rowland, Jayda Rowland, Travis Rowland (Tasha) and Jaqulene Smith (Christopher), Andrew Annese (Diann), Tom Annese (Gwen), and Diana Annese. She was also great grandma to 6. Her eldest son James Friend (Elizabeth) passed in Nov 2004.

Mom was born in Temesvar, Romania on Aug 24, 1940.  When she was 4 her family relocated to Hungary. During WWII her father was in fear for the lives of his family and fled to Germany. They had many fearful days of hiding themselves and later, hiding others including young girls to keep them safe. Mom remembered many of the traumas of the war.

When mom was a young girl she worked in a few different areas. One was a factory with her dad. Occasionally they would get off work and go dancing. This was one of her favorite things to do with him. She married a military man who brought her to America in 1960. She remembered coming America and seeing the Statue of Liberty for the first time. They were stationed in WA state. Where she lived the rest of her days. 

She was a single mom who raised 4 kids in a loving home. Her first job was as a waitress at Bowlero Lanes. When her manager left he asked her to come work for him at Food King as a grocery checker. Later in life she went to school and became an Assisted Living Activities Director. She really enjoyed working with seniors. Another season change and she found work for Ogden Services at the Tacoma Dome. She became a Stand Leader and worked a variety of venues locally as well as the Kingdome. She was a very hard worker and did everything with integrity.  Mom retired in her 70's when her health declined. She then volunteered at the church near her home serving in their food bank.  At times she would attend services there as well.

Mom had such a generous spirit and demonstrated kindness towards others that is unmatched.  She loved to help those in need and was very compassionate. Her friends adored her - most of all Charlotte and Pat her 2 lifelong friends. Wendy Curry was like a daughter to her and an important part of Mom's life.  Mom was a 2nd mother to many of her childrens' friends and always welcomed everyone into her home. There were so many others who were touched by her love; some called her Momma Maria. Many shared meals and drinks - if you ever had her Rouladen then you were lucky! It was the BEST!

She LOVED to travel and lived life to the fullest. One of her favorite places was Aruba! She also enjoyed visiting her daughter Judie in NC, spending time in her pool with her great-granddaughters. Mom's travels took her to Europe, Vermont, Hawaii, Arizona, Alaska, New York and she went on several other trips with her children.

Many cared for her the past few years with errands, phone calls or stopping by. We appreciate all our friends for loving on her.  We will miss you til our last breath mom!.  Our emptiness is great - your love greater and we were blessed to have a momma who worked, struggled, loved and always did the best she could.  THANK YOU MOM!!!!!!! We all love you. Words will never express our life with and without you.