Mary Carolyn (Anderson) Tauer

Mary Carolyn (Anderson) Tauer, a longtime resident of Pittsfield, MA, age 77, passed away peacefully on May 2, 2020 at Fairhaven Healthcare Center in Lowell, MA. Mary was born on Sep 4, 1942, in Iowa City, IA, and was raised in Miami, FL. She studied art at both Barry College and The University of Mississippi, “Ole Miss.” Mary moved to Boston to pursue an opportunity in the insurance industry where she met Robert L Tauer. They were married in Sep of 1965, eventually settling in Pittsfield, MA, after finding their dream location on Cascade St. This was the perfect place to raise a family and fulfill her passion for owning horses. Throughout the years, at least one or two horses were always on the farm. Serdaa (aka “Doodles”), was an Arabian gelding that she loved for nearly 22 years. He was her “gallant steed” and filled her with pride and joy. Trail riding in the Berkshires became a favorite activity.
Mary cared for all animals and had a knack for identifying the special ones that seemingly no one else wanted and loving them for the unique and beautiful creatures she knew they were. Mary’s love also extended to the wild critters that she befriended and fed. Apparently, there was even a bear who liked her table scraps. The birds and squirrels - they, too, became her responsibility on Cascade. Sitting on the deck enjoying a glass of wine while watching deer graze in the corner of the field was one of her favorite pastimes.
Besides horses and feeding as much of the animal population as she could, she expressed her creativity when most of the world was asleep. She was a night owl and would often stay up late scribbling notes to herself and also writing profound and heartfelt poems on the backs of random envelopes or scraps of paper. Mary loved painting and the arts, and she enjoyed cultural activities like going to Tanglewood and visiting museums and artists’ nooks. She adored Cape Ann and imparted her love of this place with her family - particularly Rocky Neck in Gloucester and Bearskin Neck in Rockport.
Mary was a realtor and worked for several years helping her clients buy and sell homes throughout Berkshire County. She also was a longtime home health aide, preparing meals and taking care of those in need. Mary was a devout Catholic and a communicant of St. Mark’s Church.
Mary was predeceased by her parents, John W and Beatrice P (Chamberlain) Anderson and her beloved son, Jonathan L Tauer. Mary is survived by her son, David W Tauer, and two granddaughters, Erika T Tauer and Mackenzi R Tauer.
Mary will be remembered most for her gumption to live life the way she wanted--with strength and conviction in her beliefs but without moral compromise. She will also be remembered for her adventurous spirit, quick-witted sense of humor, and, of course, the wonderful holiday meals she hosted for family and friends.
Burial will be a private graveside service at St. Joseph’s Cemetery with Msgr. Michael Shershanovich officiating. In lieu of flowers, if friends desire, memorial donations may be made to the Berkshire Humane Society, in care of the Devanny-Condron Funeral Home.