ELMWOOD TOWNSHIP – Mary Landa, 70, of Leelanau County and San Diego, passed away on Wednesday, Aug. 14, 2013 at her home.

Mary was born on Aug. 4, 1943 in Chicago, the daughter of William and Dorothy (Keye) Dickinson. She spent her childhood in Rockford, IL and Fullerton, CA. 

On Aug. 15, 1964, she married Victor R. Landa. The couple met at San Diego State University, where Mary received both her undergraduate and Masters degrees. 

Mary dedicated her life to the service of others as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. She worked for 37 years with the Child Protective Services department of the County of San Diego, advocating for children in foster families and group homes. She also spent 23 years in private practice with PsyCare Inc, helping couples, families and individuals face life’s challenges. 

She was recognized as a Diplomate in Clinical Social Work by the National Association of Social Workers and upon her retirement received a commendation from the County of San Diego and a day named in her honor.

Mary had a voracious love of reading, scouring through book sales to add to her extensive collection. She also loved traveling, especially exploring Europe via river cruises with her husband. As a member of the Keye family, Mary began vacationing in Omena in 1966. 

For the last 7 years, she and Vic made Leelanau County their summer home. It was there that her year-long battle with leukemia came to a peaceful end.

In addition to her loving husband, Mary is survived by her children, Gregory (Pamela) Landa and Julie (Todd) Keryc; a grandson, Ethan; and a brother, William Dickinson.

Private family services will be held at a later date. Memorials may be directed to The Leelanau Conservancy 

(leelanauconservancy.org) and The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (LLS.org)

From the Leelanau County (Michigan) Enterprise, April 22, 2013,