Mary passed away unexpectedly Wednesday, June 12, 2019. She was born to George and Elizabeth Gehring on June 27, 1955.
She leaves behind her husband of 43 years, Richard Howrigon, 2 sons, Ryan (Trisha) of Portage and Sean (Megan) of Elmhurst, Illinois; daughter, Nino (Dato) Dekanozishvilli of the Republic of Georgia; 8 grandchildren, Brayden, Kellan, Claire, Elias, Titus, Silas, Masho and Dato; brother, Tom (Betty) Gehring of Gobles; sisters and brothers –in-law, Mike (Sherry) Hanson of Otsego and Dave (Karen) Howrigon of Tennessee; mother-in-law, Clara Howrigon of Otsego along with many nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents and father-in-law, Jack Howrigon.
According to her wishes cremation has taken place.
Friends may visit with Mary’s family from 10:30 A.M., Monday, June 17, 2019 at the First Congregational Church of Otsego until the time of the memorial service at noon, with Pastor Don Boss officiating.
Private family burial of ashes will take place at Mountain Home Cemetery at a later time.
In lieu of flowers contributions in memory of Mary may be made to Christian Neighbors.
Messages of condolence may be posted at
www.WinkelFuneralHome.com.
Offer Condolence for the family of Mary Howrigon
Condolence Messages
Lynne (Bullock) Livingston
June 13, 2019 at 2:34 pm
To Rick and family, Sherry and Mike. Jamie and Ryan, Tammy and gang.
I am SO sorry for your/our loss. My first memory of Mary was Mrs. Wilcox’s family living class in high school. Mary was always a very sweet, funny, pretty friend. So happy to have our paths cross again through North Point Church. She leaves a big hole I am sure! Hold tight and celebrate the memories!! Love and prayers!!
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Terry and Pam Morse
June 13, 2019 at 2:35 pm
Rick and family, We are so sorry to hear of your loss. We will keep you all in our thoughts and prayers now and in the days ahead as you go through this difficult time.
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Vince and Sandy Sweezey
June 13, 2019 at 2:40 pm
Dear friend for many years. Hung out together in our younger years and reconnected a few years back. She was a vibrant and fun loving person who touched all she Knew. We will miss you our friend.
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Kim Dorothy
June 13, 2019 at 2:43 pm
Why is it when you need the words, they desert you?
Although Mary and I graduated together, it wasn’t until the last couple of years that we became close. She went out of her way to take care of anyone she thought she could help. I was blessed to be included in that circle. I don’t know anyone sweeter, kinder or more generous with their time.
Rick, my heart goes out to you and your family because I know how much you depended on her. We all thought she was eternal. Perhaps not in form, but she will be in spirit. We are all richer for having known her and called her friend. With love ~Kim
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Jim & Bonnie Hoffman
June 13, 2019 at 2:47 pm
Dear Rick and family, our hearts are broken with the sudden loss of Mary. Please always remember the wonderful wife, mother, grandma and best friend to all of you. I am always here for you Rick… rest in Peace you wonderful lady. Prayers, Jim & Bonnie Hoffman
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Rhonda Solomon
June 13, 2019 at 3:09 pm
Rick an Family, I’m so Very Sorry in The Loss of Mary. She was a Precious Friend who became My Family. Our Hearts are in a Million piece’s, I send Y’all Strength an Love in Honor of Our Dear Sweet Mary.
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Tim and Marcia Quigley
June 13, 2019 at 3:10 pm
Dear Rick and Family,
We send our love and prayers to all of you as you cope with losing Mary. She was one of a kind, she was the daughter of Betty – and that made her all the more special! Please know that she is now an Angel in Heaven watching over you! Cherish your memories, Fly high dear Mary, until we see you again!
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Susan and Mark Minegar
June 13, 2019 at 3:20 pm
Dear Rick,
Our hearts go out to you and your family. Mary and you have huge hearts and your lives reflect beautifully what you believe. We pray for your comfort, healing, and strength…knowing that Jesus will always be with you.
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Carrie Morgan Penny
June 13, 2019 at 3:20 pm
My deepest condolences to the entire family. Mary was such a wonderful person. She will be missed by many. Praying for peace for you all.
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Joyce Hiemstra Hunt
June 13, 2019 at 3:34 pm
Dear Rick and family. I am so very sorry to hear of Mary’s passing. My heart goes out to you. My thoughts and prayers are with you. May your memories help hold you together. Sending my love, Joyce.
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Walt & Pat Schmitt
June 13, 2019 at 3:42 pm
Rick and family, I am so shocked and so sorry, we are praying for all of you.
Walt & Pat
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Linda Lyons
June 13, 2019 at 3:55 pm
Rick and family, I’m so sorry, I feel so blessed to have called her my friend, having her join our group of girls was so much fun, she fit right in with all us crazy ladies, sure will miss her, hugs Rick, we will all be here for you dear friend
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Sherry Schumaker
June 13, 2019 at 4:15 pm
My heartfelt sympathy to the whole family. What a loss you have suffered and I will be lifting you up in prayer.
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Nancy (Ekema) Felton
June 13, 2019 at 4:40 pm
Rick….. I am so sorry to hear that Mary passed away unexpectedly. I always feel that words are mostly inadequate at times like this, but please know you & your family are in our thoughts & prayers.
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Lee and Diane Boysen
June 13, 2019 at 5:08 pm
Rick and family, Sherry & Mike, Dave & Karen, and extended families and friends… We are so sorry to hear of the loss of a special Mother, wife, sister and friend. We are sending our most sincere condolences to all of you and sending up prayers for Mary.
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Kim Rayburn
June 13, 2019 at 5:12 pm
Dear Rick and family,
Our thoughts and prayers for God’s comfort and peace are being lifted up during this difficult time. May cherished memories help to get you through.
Wayne and Kim
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Fred and Sue Bosma
June 13, 2019 at 5:48 pm
Dear Rick and your whole family, we are so sorry to hear of Mary’s sudden passing! We love you and send our constant prayers for a comfort only God can give! Mary always extended her heart and hand to many who were hurt or struggling. I will miss her humor and our sweet talks . Fred & Sue Bosma
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Don and Sadie Sheldon
June 13, 2019 at 5:52 pm
Rick and Family,
Sadie and I are so blessed to know both of you. We had such a good time when you were hear in the spring. I love you like a brother and Mary as a sister. We are praying for you always.
Don and Sadie
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Leah Kruithoff
June 13, 2019 at 5:57 pm
Sending prayers and thoughts to Ryan and Sean and your family.
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Ashley and Chris Bradshaw
June 13, 2019 at 5:57 pm
I worked with mary for a time at meijer. She was such a wonderful person to everyone. She was there when someone needed it. Aleays brought me a smile. She will be surely missed. God bless her anf her family.
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Dee Krcatovich
June 13, 2019 at 6:18 pm
Dear Rick and family,
It is with much sadness and a broken heart that I offer my deepest sympathy on the sudden loss of Mary. I am in shock and can’t even start to comprehend what you must be feeling. Your relationship was very obviously one of happiness and deep love. Hold onto those beautiful memories until, as God has promised, you are reunited for evermore. May God grant you peace beyond understanding in these coming days and weeks as you mourn the loss of your dear loved one. With much love.
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John W. Hart
June 13, 2019 at 6:26 pm
My Hart ❤️felt condolences to friends n family.
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Anne, Matt and Jakob Thomas
June 13, 2019 at 6:28 pm
Rick and family,
We are without words to express how we feel of your loss. May God hold you in his arms, giving you comfort in you time of loss.
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Mike and Agnes Schmitt Vanarsdal
June 13, 2019 at 6:43 pm
Dear Rick, children, grandchildren, Clara, Sherry and Mike, Dave and Karen— we are so very very sorry. Although we did not know Mary personally —- we have heard so many positive things about her and how she touched so many lives.
May God’s Almighty Grace be with each of you in the days to come.
In Christ Love,
Mike and Agnes (Schmitt) Vanarsdal
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Jeannie Hayes
June 13, 2019 at 6:44 pm
Rick,thank you for sharing your wife with us .We had alot of good times and laughter.But not enough time.I am so happy that she was in my life, and that she was my friend.She touched so many peoples life.Love always,Jeannie
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Tammy Pfau Leonard
June 13, 2019 at 6:55 pm
Ricky, Sean, Ryan, Tom and all the rest of our sweet MARYS Family and Friends…. Hug and never doubt how much Mary loved you ALL!
Remember her kindness and generosity to everyone… with NEVER expecting anything in return. I am so PROUD to call Mary my Friend and I know I am a better person from watching her live and love LIFE.
Please keep her memory alive for her precious grand babies… They were so important to her… Mary was one of GODS many Angels here on Earth…and now we must all carry on without her .. Except what we carry in our HEART…and I pray this will last you all till we shall see her again.
GOD BLESS and COMFORT US ALL in the knowledge Mary now has a HEAVENLY body.
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Wayne Holden
June 13, 2019 at 7:15 pm
So very sorry RIck! 43 years of marriage! Pretty special!
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Andrea Beall
June 13, 2019 at 7:24 pm
Rick and family,
You are in my prayers for comfort. May the love and many memories you have help get you through. Hugs to you all.
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Brenda Carl
June 13, 2019 at 7:26 pm
My thoughts and prayers are with the whole family, she was such a wonderful friend when we worked together at Meijer. She was and amazing lady and will be surley be missed. You are blessed with many wonderful memories.
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Bryon and Kim Sheldon
June 13, 2019 at 8:02 pm
Dear Rick, Ryan, Sean and all the rest of the family, we are so sorry for your loss of such a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, in-law, friend. Mary was such a loving, giving person; never asking for anything in return. Her smile could light up a room and it will light up heaven. We are blessed that we had Mary in our lives and that she will be a guardian Angel watching over us. God bless, Rick and your family. Please know that we are always here for you. We love you. ❤
Bryon, Kim & Joyce Sheldon
Fairhope, AL
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Susan Busfield
June 13, 2019 at 8:28 pm
My sincere condolences to Rick and the Family. I’m very sorry for your tremendous loss. Mary was such a loving, kind lady. She will definitely be missed by all who knew and loved her.
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Bea Anderson
June 13, 2019 at 8:28 pm
Dear Rick and family my heart goes out to you. I did not know Mary very well but I do know she took care of others. When my sister-in-law passed she brought my brother several delicious meals and goodies. She will be missed. So sorry.
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Tim and Laurie Andrus
June 13, 2019 at 8:51 pm
Rick and family,
We are shocked and saddened at the passing of Mary. Only Father God knows why He called her home so soon. Hopefully the out pouring of love and support from your family and friends will offer some comfort. in the days ahead.
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Diane (Moore)and Steve Belden
June 13, 2019 at 9:09 pm
Memories and faith will keep you strong through this trying time. Please know we are thinking of your family, Rick.
Mary was definitely a bright spot in anyone’s day.
Diane and Steve
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Shirley and Don Brown
June 13, 2019 at 9:55 pm
Rick and Family was so shocked this morning when Sandy let me know.. Even though I only knew Mary a few very special years. To know her was to love she was so kind, and loving. Knew right away where she was up in glory singing away. May God wrap his arms around you all and give you comfort. She will live forever in our Hearts.
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Debbie Anderson
June 13, 2019 at 9:59 pm
Dear Rick and Family,
My heart aches for you and the rest of your family with the loss of Mary. I know what a great love you both have for our Lord and I pray he wraps you and your family in his loving arms and gives you all the comfort, strength and peace you need through this difficult time. Keep your memories of Mary c lose to your heart….God Bless All of You
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Barbara Sheibels
June 13, 2019 at 10:37 pm
I would like to send my condolences to the Howrigon family. I got to know Mary and Rick when I had their children Ryan and Sean in Third Grade. Mary was a wonderful person. You all will be in my thoughts and prayers.
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Don Lavender
June 14, 2019 at 12:42 am
Rick,
I always liked you in high school, Rick. And I admire your 43 years of marriage. That is how long I’ve been married as well.
Please know that I will offer up prayers on yours and your family’s behalf.
Hold fast to your Christian faith and the Scriptures.
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Diane Groh
June 14, 2019 at 5:48 am
Rick, Ryan and Sean,
So very sorry for your loss. We will keep you in our prayers.
Jerid Harwood and Diane Groh
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Michael & Kristen Kuiper
June 14, 2019 at 6:22 am
Rick & family,
Please accept our prayers and condolences, everyone is in our thoughts. While no words can express our sadness, the easy smiles that both you and Mary always offered still warm our hearts. We are sending our strength and comfort for the days ahead.
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Deb Kiel
June 14, 2019 at 6:26 am
Rick and family,
I am so sorry to hear of Mary’s sudden passing. My heart is breaking for you, thinking of you and will be lifting you up in prayer.
Deb Kiel
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Pat Hoekstra (Evink-Doss)
June 14, 2019 at 9:29 am
Rick, words fail me…I am so broken hearted…Mary meant so much to me. She is one I call a true friend. So many years ago we formed a friendship that time endured. So happy we were able to reconnect and spend some time together. RIP my dear friend, Mary!
All my love to you and your sons and the family…
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Deborah Castaneda
June 14, 2019 at 10:06 am
We’ve known Mary and Rick from High School. Mary was a kind hearted person. My heart goes out to the family. She WI be so missed. I love you Mary. Till we meet again.
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Lou Gilbert
June 14, 2019 at 12:35 pm
Sorry Rick and the whole Howrigon family for your loss and ours.
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Bill and Barb Bigler
June 14, 2019 at 1:12 pm
Ryan, Trisha and boys,
We were so sorry to hear the news of your Mother’s passing.
May the Lord’s Love, Comfort and Peace surround you and your family at this difficult time.
Hugs
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Dave and Stef (Cooley) Makela
June 14, 2019 at 1:22 pm
Rick and the entire Howrigon Family. We are heartbroken for all of you. Keeping you in our thoughts and prayers.
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Deb Misner
June 14, 2019 at 3:00 pm
Rick, My deepest condolences to you and your family during this time. I will keep you all in my thoughts and prayers. I could tell Mary was a special lady by the way you talked about her.
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Kim Jameson, Lewis
June 14, 2019 at 8:47 pm
I am So Sorry. Prayers for Rick & the Family.
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Nola Tooker
June 14, 2019 at 9:49 pm
So sorry. What a great lady Mary was. Lots of good memories of the boys playing sports together. Prayers for your whole family. Frank, Nola and Tate..
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Nino Dekanozishvili
June 15, 2019 at 5:49 am
Dear Dad, Ryan, Sean, Trisha, Megan, Grandma Howrigon, Tom & Betty, Sherry & Mike, Dave & Karen, Imy prayers are with you! My heart is broken with Mom’s sudden passing. I can’t express how painful it is for me. I don’t know anyone sweeter and kinder than her.
Dad, my heart goes out to you because I know how much you loved her. My thoughts and prayers are with the whole family!
Mom was such a wonderful person. I am so blessed she was in my life and I could call her Mom! I regret it so much that I could not come to the US and hug her for the last time.. ❤️
She will be missed!
Love you Mom! Rest In Peace!
Thinking and praying for you! Love you and miss you all!! ❤️❤️❤️
Nino & Dato
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Pat/Terrell Clark
June 15, 2019 at 6:12 am
So saddened to hear of Mary’s passing. Met her only once when visiting our Niece, Trisha and her family. We have heard a lot of wonderful things about her.. So glad we got to spend a moment in time with her, as we truly enjoyed the day. Pat and Terrell Clark
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Tea Dekanozishvili
June 15, 2019 at 6:58 am
Dear Rick, Ryan, Sean and the family,
We are so very sorry due to Mary’s unexpected death. We are so grateful to your family for accepting our daughter in your lives and for loving her with all your hearts!
Unfortunately, we never had a chance to meet in person, but we felt the love you sent our way together with Nino. She loves your family so very much! Mary became a second mom for her. Rest In Peace dear Mary! God bless you!
We pray for the comfort of your family.
With love
Givi, Nazi, Tea and Ilia
Dekanozishvili
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Terri Shaler
June 15, 2019 at 8:26 pm
So very sorry to read about the loss of Mary. May God’s love and peace surround you and your family. Prayers for this difficult time.
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Bob Shook
June 16, 2019 at 4:16 pm
Rick and family, I was shocked to hear about Mary. I am sorry for your loss and i will be thinking of you at this sad time. Bob.
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Bryon and Kim Sheldon
June 16, 2019 at 4:34 pm
Tom and family, I am so sorry for the loss of your sister, Mary. She was such a special person and was like family to us. Please know that y’all are in our thoughts and prayers, Tom.
Bryon and Kim Sheldon
AL
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Fabi Marques
June 16, 2019 at 10:53 pm
I met Mary when I was a exchange student in Allegan – MI. I have memories of how nice and sweet she was. May she rest in peace and may we remember her for her kindness and easy smile.
Nino, Ryan, Sean and Peter, may God or the superior energy be with you.
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Lorna Sisson
June 17, 2019 at 6:49 am
Please know at this terribly difficult time you and your family are in our hearts, thoughts and prayers. May God fill your hearts with the wonderful memories you share and give you His peace that passes all possible understanding of your sudden loss. In Christ’s love, Craig and Lorna
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Hilery
June 17, 2019 at 9:30 am
Rick and family…my dad and our family want to tell you how sorry we are to hear this devastating news. We know how you feel and if there is anything we can help with please don’t hesitate to reach out. We will always remember Mary as a woman with a quick friendly smile full of compassion who put people at ease so effortlessly. We are forever grateful to you guys for the visits after mom passed away 2 years ago. Love to you all.
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Leslie and Jim Samuelson
June 17, 2019 at 10:33 am
Rick, Ryan, Sean and Families: We we’re shocked and saddened to hear of Mary’s passing. Her and Rick have always had a ready smile for everyone and such kind hearts. So many memories, especially of the boys growing up and hanging out from elementary school thru high school and sports activities. Know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. Cherish those memories. Hugs and love!
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Lauren Porter
June 17, 2019 at 12:27 pm
To the entire family, we are so sorry to hear about the unexpected loss of Mary. May she rest in peace and let us always remember the good times we had. Please let us know if there is anything we can do to help.
Much love, Lauren Porter and Jake Butchli
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Scott & LuAnn Sulzener
June 17, 2019 at 1:22 pm
Rick, Sean, Ryan & families: so sorry to hear of Mary’s passing. Keeping all of you in our thoughts & prayers. Hold on to all the wonderful memories you have.
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Deb Courtney
June 17, 2019 at 7:18 pm
I have the honors of meeting Mary through Yvonne Anderson, and I’m blessed to have the opportunity, Mary was a very special person I enjoyed her visits with Yvonne and their visits were always a special time or trip to Marshalls or Apple bees for a margarita. My 2 all time favorite memories are, when Yvonne moved into her new place I did most of the packing but Rick and Mary rocked the move, unpacking, and putting stuff away before I got there, and the other is the Christmas chocolate candies that she taught me how to make . Mary you will be missed by all and may God continue to comfort your family and friends. Rest in paradise Mary ❤️
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Candy Polderdyke
June 18, 2019 at 8:51 am
Rick, My deepest condolences to you and your family. I didn’t have the pleasure of knowing Mary, but I can tell from her picture and from all of the wonderful memories being shared here what a warm, special person she was. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Candy
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Timothy & Melissa McKee
June 18, 2019 at 11:37 am
Rick, Ryan and Sean. Thoughts are with you and your extended family. Lots of childhood memories with you all. Prayers sent.
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Terry & Pam Johnson
June 18, 2019 at 2:31 pm
Dear Rick & Boys,
So sorry to hear of Mary’s unexpected passing. We will cherish the memories we have of boy scouts and Sunday School with you and the boys. You are in our thoughts and heartfelt prayers, Terry & Pam
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Amy Fuller
July 2, 2019 at 4:14 pm
Clara I am not sure if I ever met you but my parents were Bill and Martha Fuller and I heard your name many times growing up and as an adult. I am sorry for your loss
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