Marie V. Mason, 87, artist and entrepreneur, died Wednesday, January 7, 2026 at Vintage Gardens, St. Joseph, MO.
Born February 23, 1938 in San Rafael, CA. She grew up in Seattle, WA. Marie earned her BA degree at UNLV, and began a ten year teaching career in Las Vegas. Marie has been a prolific and successful artist since childhood, when her grandmother gave her a paint-by-number kit of Gainsborough’s “Blue Boy.” Her passion for painting and drawing continued throughout her life, Marie moved to Kansas City in 1980.
In 1996 she founded Bella Company, and began creating products featuring her original artwork. She gained notoriety as an artist in the Kansas City area, showing her work at local and regional art galleries. Moving to Weston, MO in 2007, she opened the Bella Company Store and Gallery on Main Street. She was well known for her passion for animal welfare and rescue, and was often seen walking her dogs through town. She loved gardening, being outdoors, music and her pets.
Marie was preceded in death by both parents, daughter, Virginia Nemechek, and son, Frederick Mason. She is survived by her partner, Kathy L. (Kate) Marts of Weston. Ms. Mason has been cremated under the care of Rupp Funeral Home.
Honor her memory with a donation to any animal shelter or rescue group, or support an arts organization such as the Kansas City Artists Coalition or the Lyric Opera of Kansas City. A celebration of Marie’s life will be held Sunday, January 25, 2026, 3-5 p.m. at the Avalon Cafe, 608 Main St., Weston, MO 64098.
