Mary Vondersaar Barnes, age 62, of Hockessin, DE departed this world on January 3rd, 2024. She resided in Hockessin for 25 years with her husband, John (Sean) Barnes of 32 years.
She was born in Lebanon, Indiana in January of 1961 and was the daughter of the late Paul Richard Vondersaar and Joan (Coyle) Vondersaar. Mary is survived by her son Liam Patrick Barnes and his fiancée Kendall Dishek of Round Hill, VA, and daughter Emma Marie Barnes of Reston, VA.
She is also survived by sisters Anne (Vondersaar) Gaylord, Carole (Vondersaar) Seidl, and Kathryn (Vondersaar) Lee, and brothers Paul Vondersaar II, Joseph Vondersaar and Thomas Vondersaar.
Mary grew up in Brownsburg, Indiana and graduated from Cardinal Ritter High School in 1979. She received a bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts in metalsmithing from Ball State University in Muncie, IN in 1983.
Mary subsequently worked for jewelry design studios in New York City and further refined her jewelry design and fabrication skills working for several jewelry stores back in Indianapolis. After marrying Sean Barnes in 1991 they moved to Delaware, where Mary worked for Stuart Kingston Jewelers for many years while also developing an independent following of clients who appreciated her exquisite designs and workmanship.
She eventually struck out on her own, opening an Etsy store that was extremely successful. Working out of the basement of her home she produced world-class jewelry that attracted a wide clientele.
Mary was a very gifted athlete, competing in over 20 Spartan obstacle races all over the country. She trained with great determination for these races, setting up a gym in her basement and training every day. This paid off – she medaled several times, most notably winning Gold in her age group. She was also an accomplished pickleball player, winning many tournaments and representing Delaware in the National Senior Games.
Although very competitive in sports, Mary had a very kind and generous heart and gained many close friends through her various activities. She will be greatly missed by her friends in fitness groups, and in the Diamond State Pickleball Club and many other clubs in the region.
She and her husband enjoyed travel and visited France, Spain, Ireland (her husband’s homeland), New Zealand, Kauai, the Florida Keys, and St. Croix, among other destinations.
Her indomitable spirit in facing her illness was an inspiration to her carers and to all who had the privilege of knowing her. This wonderful woman will be sorely missed by her family and many friends.
A Memorial Service will be held on Wednesday, January 10, 2024 at 6:00 pm at Chandler Funeral Home, 7230 Lancaster Pike, Hockessin, DE 19707. A viewing will be held prior to the service from 4:00 to 6:00 pm. Interment will be private.
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