Stellema, Mary 6/20/1938-2/27/2024

Mary Jean Stellema (Heeren) age 85, beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully on Tuesday February 27, 2024, and was welcomed into the arms of Jesus. The family is comforted by Psalm 116:15 which says, "Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his faithful servants."

Despite walking through many difficult circumstances in her life, Mary's faith in Jesus was truly evident in the way she loved and served others. She will be deeply missed by her surviving children, Cathie and Tim Frisosky, Cheri and Greg Niemeier and Lisa and Kevin Clouser. She is preceded in death by her son, Tom Stellema and her grandsons, Nathan Niemeier and Micah Niemeier.

She will also be greatly missed by her surviving grandchildren: Jeffrey and Rae House-Niemeier, Matthew Niemeier, Jordan Niemeier, Kimberlee Frisosky, Andy and Leah Frisosky, Whitney and Rob Blair, Michael Eyk, Shandra Scheuermann, Matthew and Emily Miller, and Kat and Tim Miller-Stachowski.

Mary is also survived by her 12 great grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by her parents Elmer and Jean Heeren (Vanderlaan); brothers Edwin Heeren(Pat), Robert Heeren, and sister Audrey Wiltjer.

Mary showed her love for her family in amazing ways. She attended sporting events, plays, musical concerts, and anything her children or grandchildren were involved in. She was always there encouraging them and cheering them on. As a grandma, she was extremely brave and supportive. Mary would courageously take care of her 5 grandsons.They have fond memories of their exciting adventures with her which sometimes included Papa John's pizza, orange pop, and their favorite snacks. Other grandkids remember watching old episodes of "I love Lucy" and "White Christmas" many times over as they enjoyed their favorite treats.

Mary made birthdays, holidays, and even Sunday dinners a memorable occasion

for her children and grandchildren. Her tradition of making special recipes that she knew would disappear quickly; whether comfort food enjoyed around the table together or delicious "dutch treat" (banket), or homemade fudge or puppy chow; she let everyone know how deeply she valued and treasured them.

Mary worked at AAA from 1979-2005 in various capacities where she built many great relationships, including her best friend, Norma Nammensma. Throughout the years Mary and Norma took time every evening to connect over a phone to share the challenges and celebrations of the day. This continued until the end of 2023 when the disease of dementia took away Mary's ability to continue their daily talks.

After retiring from AAA Mary began working at Costco where she cheerfully handed out samples until her 80th birthday. No matter where Mary would go, people would recognize her as the "sample lady" and remember the warmth of her smile and the kindness of her heart.

Mary found another passion that gave her purpose and strong faith-based relationships after she left Costco. She started volunteering at Mission India Thrift Store. The proceeds from the store support Mission India's ministry work with Indian Christian partners to share the Gospel and plant churches.

A visitation will take place on Tuesday March 5th at Zaagman Memorial Chapel from 5PM to 7PM. A funeral service will be held the following day, Wednesday, March 6th at Zaagman Memorial Chapel at 11AM, with family welcoming friends at 10AM.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Mission India 1142 44th St SE, Kentwood, MI 49508.

If one wishes to view the service via livestream, here is the link to do so: https://view.oneroomstreaming.com/index.php?data=MTcwOTMyNzcyMDI5ODMxOCZvbmVyb29tLWFkbWluJmNvcHlfbGluaw==