Mary Theresa Fette

Mary Theresa Fette of Erie, age 88, passed away on Friday October 30, 2026 at Forestview Nursing Home.

She was born on December 29, 1937 to the late Fritz and Coletta Dechant Vetter.

Mary was a graduate of Villa Maria Academy in Erie. She attended and graduated from Seton Hill University, Middlebury College, and the University of Mexico, earning advanced degrees in Spanish and Education. She was awarded the Seton Hill Distinguished Alumni Leadership Award in 2001. While studying in Mexico, she also taught English. After her studies, she taught Spanish at McDowell High School and Villa Maria College.

In 1967 she met her future husband Chris, and the two were married later that year on December 29. In 1970 they started a family with the birth of their first son Chris, and in 1972 a second son John. Mary dedicated herself to managing the home and raising her two sons, and in 1978 encouraged and supported her husband in founding Transportation Equipment Supply Company, a local manufacturer of locomotive tooling. She became the Secretary/Treasurer of the family business, managing the finances and all administrative functions, as well as providing a warm and comfortable home for her family. Later in life she pursued a new passion, earning her Doctor of Natural Health degree in 2010.

Mary was a lifelong learner, teacher, and mentor. She was an avid reader, an accomplished pianist, and enjoyed traveling across the United States, Canada, and Europe with her husband Chris. She was unfailing in her roles as wife, mother, and friend. Her greatest desire in life was to be a good person, and those that knew her can attest to her success in this mission.

In addition to her parents, Mary was preceded in death by an infant son Paul.

Mary is survived by her husband Chris and her two sons Chris (Mary Leach) and John (Heidi).

Friends may call at the Burton Quinn Scott Cremation and Funeral Services, Inc. 3801 W. 26th Street, on Thursday November 5th from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. A prayer service will immediately follow.

Memorials may be made to UPMC Family Hospice of Erie.

Send condolences at www.BurtonQuinnScott.com