Utica – Mary Lou Grikstas, 77, a resident of Heritage Health Care Center, Utica, passed away Thursday, June 15, 2017 at the nursing home. Mary Lou was born June 14, 1940 in Camden, NY to Lester and Louise (Allan) Bronk. She grew up in Yorkville, where she attended Whitesboro schools. Mary Lou worked for 30 years in several nursing homes in Bennington, VT, Williamstown, MA, and in Utica at the Hunter House. Mary Lou enjoyed art, particularly drawing. Mary Lou is survived by sisters-in-law, Rosemary (Mrs. Ernest) Bronk and Bessie (Mrs. Charles) Bronk; as well as a niece and several nephews. She is predeceased by her parents, and by four brothers, Lester Bronk, Ernest Bronk, Charles Bronk, and Donald Bronk; by a sister-in-law, Elaine (Mrs. Donald) Bronk; a niece, Corrine (Bronk) McKela and nephews, Robert and Steven Bronk. Mrs. Grikstas’ funeral services will take place privately at the convenience of the family. Interment will be held in Grandview Cemetery, Whitesboro. At Mary Lou’s request, there are no calling hours. Arrangements are entrusted to the Heintz Funeral Home, 1517 Whitesboro St., Utica. The family would like to offer there sincere thanks and gratitude to the nurses and staff of the Heritage Health Care Center for the care and compassion shown to Mary Lou during her stay.