Mary E. McKenzie's Obituary
Mary E. McKenzie, age 58, passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, September 18, 2025, surrounded by her loving family, after courageously living with Multiple Sclerosis since 1999. She was born on October 24, 1966, to Richard and Sally (Brouwer) Grushon in Kalamazoo, MI, and moved to Whitehall in 1995. Mary graduated from Loy Norrix High School, Class of 1985, and went on to earn her bachelor’s degree from Central Michigan University. She later continued her education at Grand Valley State University, receiving her master’s degree in teaching. Mary had a gift for inspiring young minds and dedicated 10 years to early education at Oehrli Elementary School in Montague. On September 16, 1995, she married the love of her life, Scott McKenzie, and together they shared 30 wonderful years filled with love, laughter, and devotion. A longtime and faithful member of Trinity Lutheran Church in New Era, Mary lived her life guided by faith and kindness. She loved reading, listening to audiobooks, and being a part of her book clubs. She also enjoyed music and was a devoted fan of both the Detroit Lions and Tigers. Above all, Mary cherished her family. She will be remembered as a strong, determined, and caring woman whose spirit touched all who knew her. She loved her children unconditionally and was an amazing mother. She will be deeply missed by the many who loved her. She is survived by her loving husband, Scott McKenzie; two daughters, Molly McKenzie and Maty McKenzie; father, Richard Grushon; two sisters; Deborah Johnson and Rebecca (Mark) Ehrnstrom; nieces and nephews; Meridyth (Cameron) Walston, Mason (Kelly) Johnson, Emily Ehrnstrom, and Ethan Ehrnstrom; and many dear friends and family. She was preceded in death by her mother, Sally Grushon; and brother-in-law, David Johnson. A Celebration of Mary’s Life will be held at 11:00 AM on Saturday, September 27, 2025, at The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 S. Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444, with visitation one-hour prior. The family requests that memorial contributions in her honor be made in support of Hospice of Michigan -Muskegon. Share memories with the family at https://www.sytsemafh.com.
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