Mary Victoria (Chase) Gould

Harwich ~ 1925-2025
After 99 ½ years, Mary’s bright light went out in the early morning hours of January 30, 2025. Although her family and friends are sad, they are relieved that she will finally relax and get some rest! She was a vocal force, unabashedly outspoken, and impatient with people who weren’t actively serving others or doing something productive. She was also a woman of strong faith, humility, and compassion. Her values guided her in creating a home and a life that truly accepted everyone, especially those in need of advice, a simple meal or even a place to live. 
   Mary was born on July 15, 1925, to Charles W. and Salome Louise (Walker) Chase of East Harwich. Her father taught her to how to upholster furniture and sew at a young age. She took these skills and developed a successful business where she was known for her expert tailoring and slipcovers. Some of her other accomplishments were being a lifelong member of the East Harwich United Methodist Church and establishing its Thrift Shop, being a founding member of the Harwich AFS Chapter and hosting numerous students from around the world. 
The legacy of which she was most proud was her family and home. When she was only 19 years old, she purchased a house with no electricity or plumbing on 13 acres in East Harwich. Later, with the help of her husband, Donald, their home became a center of activity for their community, friends, and extended family. She joyfully hosted holidays, parties, and weddings, and always welcomed her children’s friends. Her ultimate joy came when the land became a family compound with four generations of Goulds residing together.
Mary is survived by her beloved husband of almost 75 years, Donald S. Gould, Sr. and her children: Donald S. Gould, Jr. and wife Sally of East Harwich, Basil Bantimba and wife Barbara of Mansfield, MA, Ina Gould and husband Ron Bridges of East Harwich, and Elizabeth (Moschini) Schluter and her husband Peter of Chatham; her  grandchildren, Seth Gould and great grandson, Henry, Julia and Allison Bantimba, and Cory (Mahnke), Kali, and Madison Schluter. She also leaves cherished nieces, nephews, and their children, who made her life rich with their presence and love.
Mary was predeceased by her parents and siblings, all of Harwich: her brothers Charles Chase, Sidney Chase, Herbert Chase, Richard Chase and her sisters, Gertrude Chase (Peters) and Irene Chase (Zuspan).
The family wishes to express their gratitude to the Broad Reach Hospice team and the wonderful staff at Rosewood Manor for helping Mary peacefully transition to a place of rest.
If you wish to honor Mary, please consider donating to the Family Pantry of Cape Cod, 133 Queen Anne Rd. Harwich, MA 02645.
Notes of comfort may be made to Mary’s family at www.chapmanfuneral.com