We Mourn the Loss of Mary Louise Hutula
Mary Louise Hutula, née Engel, 81, of McMurray, PA, passed away peacefully on October 17, 2025. Born on May 26, 1944, in Davenport, IA, to John Francis Engel and Edna Henrietta Thomsen, Mary lived a vibrant life defined by compassion, faith, family, and community service. She was preceded in death by her parents.
Mary graduated from L’Anse High School in 1962, where she shone as a cheerleader and was actively involved in numerous clubs, showcasing her spirited nature. She earned a nursing degree from Northern Michigan University in 1964, pursuing her passion for helping others. That same year, she married her high school sweetheart, David N. Hutula, in L’Anse, MI, and together they shared 61 years of marriage, building a legacy of love and togetherness. In 1970, Mary and David moved to the Pittsburgh area, where they established deep roots.
A devoted mother, Mary is survived by her two sons, Scott Hutula (wife Joanna) of Concord, NC, and Craig Hutula (wife Gretchen) of Tolland, CT. She cherished her role as a grandmother to Karina Hutula of Augusta, GA, Mitchell Hutula of Charlotte, NC, and Grace Hutula of Tolland, CT. She was also preceded in death by her brothers, Paul Engel of Greenville, MI (survived by his wife, Kathy), and Artie Engel of L’Anse, MI.
Mary’s dedication to her community was profound. As a skilled nurse, she served with care at Baraga County Memorial Hospital in L’Anse, MI, Beaumont Hospital in Royal Oak, MI, and St. Clair Hospital in Pittsburgh, PA. Her leadership shone as president of the Peters Township PTA around 1975, championing education, and as president of the Giant Oaks Garden Club for multiple years, where she nurtured her love for gardening. In 1974, she co-founded the Pacers Track Club and coached for many years, inspiring young athletes. An avid tennis player, she brought her competitive spirit to local USTA teams in the South Hills area, forming lasting friendships. Mary’s faith was a cornerstone of her life; she was an active member of Hope Lutheran Church and Zion Lutheran Church, where she led the altar guild and acolytes, serving with devotion and grace. She found great joy spending time at the family cabin on Big Lake in Covington, MI, where she cherished moments of peace and connection with loved ones. Her kindness, warmth, and enduring spirit left a lasting impact on her family, friends, and community.
Family and friends received from 3 to 5 p.m., on Friday, October 31, at the Warchol Funeral Home, Inc., 3060 Washington Pike, Bridgeville. A funeral service will take place at 11 a.m. on Saturday, November 1, 2025, at Zion Lutheran Church in Bridgeville, PA, followed by a light meal. The family extends special thanks to Ridgecrest in McMurray for the exceptional care Mary received over the past year. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial donations to the Alzheimer’s Association - Greater Pennsylvania Chapter (alz.org/pa) or Zion Lutheran Church in Bridgeville, PA, in honor of Mary’s compassionate spirit and faithful service. View and add condolences at: www.warcholfuneralhome.com
