Anne Marie (Donovan) Tracht
In Salem, formerly of Swampscott & East Boston, on May 4th at 73 years, following an 18 year battle with metastatic breast cancer. She fought the battle bravely & positivity. Beloved wife of the late David M. Tracht, her soul mate who passed in July of 2018. Those left to cherish her memory include her devoted daughter & best friend, Ashley R. McHarrie & her husband John M. & her treasured granddaughters, Margaret C. and Chloe M McHarrie, all of Salem, MA. Lovingly survived by her brother-in-law, Leon Tracht & her sister-in-law, Arlene Tracht of Tarpon Springs, FL, several cousins in Maryland & many dear friends and extended family. She left a lasting impression on all who met her and became “Mama T” to so many. Born in Boston, MA, Anne was the only daughter to the late Gerald F. & Margaret A. (McQueeney) Donovan. She was a proud alumna of Fitton High School, Emmanuel College & Boston College. She retired in 2008 after 34 years as Supervisor of Vocational Rehabilitation Services, for the Mass. Commission for the Blind.
Family & friends are invited to attend Visiting Hours on Friday, May 7th from 4:00 p.m. -7:00 p.m., at the Vertuccio & Smith Home for Funerals, 773 Broadway (Rte. 107) REVERE. All are invited to attend Anne’s funeral mass to be celebrated on Saturday, May 8th in St. John the Evangelist Church, 178 Humphrey St., SWAMPSCOTT at 10:00 a.m., immediately followed with interment at Swampscott Cemetery, Swampscott. All mourners are directed to report directly to the church. Face Masks must be worn at all times and social distancing must be maintained in the Funeral Home & Church.
Anne was involved as a religious education teacher and Eucharistic minister at St. John the Evangelist Parish in Swampscott and was a member of the Winthrop Lodge of Elks #1078. She enjoyed all social gatherings, especially those at North Shore Music Theater, Bertini’s in Salem, happy hour at Brightview in Danvers, or in the “cul de sac.” Her favorite activity, by far, was doting on her two granddaughters, whom she adored more than anything and who could unequivocally brighten her spirits. The family acknowledges with overwhelming gratitude the extraordinary care Anne received at MGH Danvers Cancer Center, Brightview Senior Living in Danvers, Care Dimensions & finally at the Kaplan Family Hospice House – Danvers during the final chapter of her earthly journey.
In lieu of flowers, remembrances can be made to The Carroll Center for the Blind, 770 Centre St., Newton, MA 02458 (www.carroll.org).
To Anne Marie’s Family,
I am very sorry to learn of Anne Marie’s passing. Her maternal grandmother (Margaret Reidy McQueeny) was the sister of my maternal grandfather (Mike Reidy). As children and young people we saw each other frequently traveling between Boston and Stamford. The last time I saw her was at a cousin’s funeral in 1993 (he was 44). We all were very fond of her, her mother and grandmother. She was a lovely person. May her memory be a blessing to you.
Mary O’Gorman
Brooklyn, NY
Dear Ashley,
I am so sorry to read about the passing of your mother, my friend, Anne. Though I had not seen your mother since I was transferred from St. John’s Church in 2003, I will always remember her as kind and very welcoming to all who had the privilege of knowing her. I will offer a mass for her, and your late father, David, who lived his faith by a good life, and was so supportive of you and your mother in your faith journey.
With love,
Fr. Tom
Ashley, I was a classmate of your mother’s both at St. Mary’s and Fitton. We spent hours at her home practicing piano duets for the annual recital at St. Mary’s. I was Kathy Rielly then. Your mom is smiling down on your family. I know they will nurture the many wonderful memories you all have stored up.
Ann I was a teacher of mine at the seventh and eighth grade at the Saint Mary school and East Boston wonderful teacher wonderful person sorry for your loss Jim Mosca
Ashley,
No words can can describe how wonderful your mom was and my family truly loved her!!
Our moms are our best friend and know she will be watching over you and your beautiful family.
My mom is in heaven smiling and welcoming Anne with big hugs and kisses!!
Many memories of family gatherings with The Hickey family who she shared with many holidays and parties in East Boston. I remember her great laugh and enjoyed many conversations about her Florida family. Sleep in the heavens Anne with your beloved David. My Best and Love to her daughter Ashley and husband John. Ann Hickey
To the Family of Anne Marie Tracht;
My deepest condolences on your loss of your mother and grandmother. Anne was an exceptional human being who wore her heart on her sleeve and you only had to meet her once and her warmth and kindness stayed with you. We at Fitton were fortunate to share time with Anne for years and she remained an engaging and welcoming friend and classmate. A fond memory I have was enjoying time at her home in East Boston with classmates and she entertained us with her piano playing. Over the years these were bright and comforting memories that we hold dear especially during our years of reflection. I hope your memories bring you comfort and allow you to celebrate her life well lived. ‘To love and be loved is like feeling the sun from both
sides.’ God bless you and your families especially during these very difficult days ahead. Sincerely, Peggy (Kneeland) Walsh.
My deepest condolences.
I loved working with Anne. She was always quick to smile and bring joy and laughter to everyone around her.
When I think of Anne, my heart smiles.
May her memory be a blessing.
Love,
Cheryl Rivers