Mary Lee Thick

Mary L. Thick, 80, of Marshall, passed away on December 13th, 2024 at home with her husband Bill close by, as always, throughout their life together of over 60 years.

She was born on March 8, (her Mom's birthday), 1944 in Albion to Lawrence L. and Pauline C. Duttlinger.

The family moved to Marshall where Mary graduated in 1962. She continued her education at Western Michigan University earning a degree in business administration in 1964.

On November 5, 1966, she married William F. Thick. Mary and Bill were classmates in high school but never dated. The two were reintroduced on a blind date at a friends house to play cards. Neither knew they were the only guests invited. The meeting was a success and they have been inseparable for over 60 years.

They welcomed two children, Bill, Jr. and Kristin, and built a beautiful life, marked by love, partnership, and a shared comfort of just being together.

Mary followed Bill's Marine Corps duty and later education at MSU and worked for many businesses in the H.R. areas.

When back in Marshall, Mary worked at Eaton Corp H.R. for over 20 years, during which time, to better herself, she simultaneously earned a B.A. degree at Spring Arbor College, graduating Summa Cum Laude, and the highest in her class.

Upon retiring from Eaton she worked for the Regional Manufacturing Technology Center and taught on­ site computer training for many companies including Duncan Aviation.

Mary enjoyed golfing, gardening, and creating beautiful cross-stitching and making Christmas stockings for all the family members.

She particularly enjoyed shopping with her friends and especially her daughter, Kris. On Kris' birthday they would find a new city and shop for the weekend. Mary also traveled with Bill to many vacation spots over the years.

Two trips stood out for her. A trip across Europe with Bill and Bill, Jr. after his action in Desert Storm. The other noteworthy trip was with two best friends; Bette Lee Serbantez and Father Rob Moss. They went to Rome in 2010 where Mary read the first reading in a private mass in St. Peters Basilica.

Mary's smile was bright sunshine. She would always make everyone a little happier with that smile. She was approachable, volunteered often and sincere in her actions with others. She was a member of Altrusa, Red Hat, various bridge groups, a member of the St. Mary parish board, the garden ministry, and ushered often, and she was chaplain in the VFW Auxiliary. She was graceful, beautiful inside and out and generous. She spoke gently and always made sure others felt loved. To Bill she was his shining star and the glue that held the family together.

Those who knew Mary will remember her warmth, sense of humor, and unwavering loyalty to her family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, a brother Ronald, and a son, Stephen Bryant in 1975.

Mary is survived by her husband, William F. (Bill) of Marshall, children, William F. (Bill Jr.) also of Marshall, daughter Kristin (Phillip) Peterson, of Laingsburg. Also grandchildren; Kate (Keith) Knight, Keli (Marc) Osborn, and 3 great-grandchildren; Taro, Mark, and Chase, as well as sisters, Jean Delaney of Marshall and Alice (Mike) Laps of Venice, FL, numerous nieces and nephews, and uncle, Kenneth VanSchoick of Lansing. 

Friends may call at the Kempf Family Funeral and Cremation Services on January 6th, 2025 from 2 - 4 and 6 - 8 with a Rosary at 7:30. The family will be present to greet friends and share memories. A mass to celebrate her life will be held on January 7th at 11:00 a.m. at St. Mary Church.

Memorial contributions may be made in Mary's name to Camp Bright Bird, which enables many disabled veterans to participate in an all-expense paid Pheasant hunt.