It is with heavy hearts that we say goodbye to a native Nevadan and longtime Fallon resident, Mary Ann Wandvik (Gomes). Mary Ann's life was marked by her faith-filled spirit, wisdom, and the joy she brought to the people around her. She passed away peacefully at home on November 7, 2025.
Mary Ann was born in Mina, Nevada, on December 26, 1933, to Lloyd Thomas and Aurel Bell Hutchison. At the age of six, she moved with her family to Fallon. She attended St. Clair school and graduated from Churchill County High School in 1951.
In January 1952, Mary Ann married John Gomes, and together they raised three children: Mary Lou, Marjorie, and Joseph. Mary Ann, along with her husband John Gomes, spent their lives as ranchers and dairymen, a testament to their love for the land and the animals they tended. She was renowned for her culinary talents, particularly during haying season when she would prepare feasts for the day workers, ensuring that no one ever left hungry. Her holiday rolls and linguica pizza were legendary, and her kitchen was a hub of warmth and delicious aromas.
Anchored by her Catholic faith, Mary Ann was an active and beloved member of St. Patrick's Church, where she contributed tirelessly to the community. Her work in the church office, especially on the weekly bulletin, was a testament to her faith.
Beyond her life on the ranch, Mary Ann had a zest for life's many pleasures. She was an avid square dancer and a member of the Arsenic Swingers Dance Club, where her spirited nature shone brightly. Her passion for history and tradition was reflected in her membership of the Antique Car Club, and she delighted in driving their vintage cars in the local Fourth of July and Labor Day parades. Mary Ann's love for adventure and exploration took her and her special friends on memorable trips to Alaska, Hawaii, Italy, Mexico, Portugal, and the Holy Land. These travels were a source of cherished memories and stories that she would share with her family and friends.
After the loss of her beloved John in 2008, Mary Ann found love again and married Hal Wandvik in January 2015. Hal was a kind and loving companion until his passing in 2019, and their time together was marked by mutual respect and affection. Mary Ann was preceded in death by her parents, siblings, her husband John of 56 years, her second husband Hal, and many lifelong friends.
Mary Ann's legacy is carried on by her devoted children: Mary Lou Lehman (Ernie Pontius), Marjorie Jean Ellis (Don), and Joseph Lloyd Gomes (Lori); grandchildren: Brad Dolan, Kenny Dolan, Jodi Tucker, Bridget Christie, Thayne Gomes, Lance Gomes, and Nick Gomes; as well as 13 great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren, each of whom brought immense happiness to her life.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to her loving caregivers: Staley Kent, Evelyn Pietri, and Summer Coyne, for their kindness and care.
As we honor her memory, we celebrate a life well-lived and the countless ways she touched our hearts. Mary Ann Wandvik's story is one of unwavering faith, boundless love, and the enduring power of a life dedicated to family, friends, and community. A memorial service will be held Nov. 28 at 1 p.m. at Smith Family Funeral Home. Burial will be at the Churchill County Cemetery at a later date. A luncheon will take place immediately after at The Twisted Branch.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Pennington Life Center (Senior Center) in Mary Ann’s memory.
Comment
Comments