Obituary for Mary Ann Reed

Mary Ann Reed, age 95 of Middleville, passed away peacefully on May 23, 2024. Mary was born on June 14, 1928, in Portland, Michigan, the daughter of Preston and Dorothea (Boettger) Esterline. As a young lady, Mary worked as a soda jerk at her uncle's pharmacy. She was a true "Rosie the Riveter”, contributing to the World War II effort by making airplane parts alongside her sister and mother. Mary spent over three decades working at Meijer, enhancing not only the company but also the lives of those she worked with. She developed lifelong friendships from her friends at Meijer and enjoyed going on many trips with them. After retirement, Mary continued to touch lives, greeting customers at the local dollar store with her warm smile. Her love for ballroom and square dancing, golfing, and playing cards resonated with everyone she met. Mary cherished being able to travel, especially to Texas for the winters. She exemplified faith and fellowship throughout her life as a member of Portland Baptist Church, where she met her loving husband, Leroy, and then at Leighton Church. Mary's vivacity and love will be dearly missed by all who knew her. Mary is survived by her daughters: Janet (Jochen Ertl) Schantz, Joanne Lipski, Connie (Bob) Blain, and Jacquelyn Dutcher; 25 grandchildren; 35 great grandchildren, 13 great-great grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. Mary was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Leroy Reed; son, Ron Reed; daughter, Barb Finkbeiner; siblings: Lorene Weller, Jeanette Scheurer, and Earl Esterline. A private service will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions to the American Cancer Society or Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids will be appreciated. Please visit www.beelergoresfuneral.com to share a memory or to leave a condolence message for Mary’s family.