Ethel M. "Mickey" Stafford's Obituary
Ethel M. “Mickey” (Fenner) Stafford, age 91, passed away peacefully on Saturday, April 5, 2025. She was born in Muskegon to Bazil and Bonita (Danner) Fenner on June 11, 1933. On September 1, 1950, she married Thomas W. Stafford Jr. Together they cherished 70 years full of love and laughter. Mickey was employed as a medical assistant and receptionist for over 30 years. She was a faithful member of Laketon Bethel Reformed Church, where she formerly served as a member of the church choir and president of the guild.
Ethel was a proud mother and organizer of her family. She always made sure her children got to the dentist, eye doctor and family doctor whenever needed. She always made time to prepare dinner and fill her table with delicious meals for her family no matter how busy her work schedule could be. Some of her famous meals included her goulash and raspberry pretzel salad. Her children loved coming home to the smell of chocolate chip cookies and warm bread rolls.
One of Mickey’s favorite memories was the big meals that were made annually at the Fenner farm during hay harvesting. She also had many cherished memories sledding on the sand dunes by Lake Michigan with her brother, David.
Mickey instilled in her children through church hymns on the radio Sunday mornings, when it was time to get up and ready to join her for church. She will be remembered for her love of red lipstick Chanel number 5, sunbathing on the beach of Lake Michigan and reading her suspense novels. Her pretty nails and rings were some of the attributes of the classy lady Mickey was.
She is survived by her loving children, Thomas (Mai) Stafford, Debra (Lynn) Mosier and Diana (David) Timmer; seven grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren with one on the way; and several nieces and nephews. Mickey was preceded in death by her parents; loving husband, Thomas Stafford Jr.; and brother, David Fenner.
A Private Family Service will be held. Memorial Contributions in her honor can be directed to Harbor Hospice. Arrangements entrusted to The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 S. Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444. Share memories with the family at www.sytsemafh.com.
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