Mary Usmial's Obituary
Mrs. Mary Usmial, 95 years old, passed away to the loving arms of Jesus our Lord on March 31, 2016. She was born of Ukrainian descent, on April 5, 1920, in Muskegon Heights to George and Margaret (Cap) Iwaniw and grew up in Bailey, Michigan. She graduated from Kent City High School as Salutatorian. She attended Western Michigan University and then taught in a one-room schoolhouse. Later, Mary retired after 33 years as an employee of Muskegon Piston Ring. On June 24, 1944, she married Leo S. Usmial. He preceded her in death on March 4, 1994. Mary’s life consisted of being a wonderful mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Her loving kindness and her deep spirituality was the gift she shared with others always. She said she had a wonderful life and loved people, and they loved her back…a legacy of love she has left behind. Mary had four children, Margaret (Stephen) Hoffman, Leo S. (Carol) Usmial of Gold River, CA, John (Barbara) Usmial, and Barbara Hoffman. Seven grandchildren, Steven Hoffman, Chad Hoffman, Ann (Wes) Lancaster, Shelley (Steve) Koroush, Amber Cunningham, Molly (Tim) Olsen, and Lee (Jessica) Usmial. Her great-grandchildren include Lindsay, Michael, and Natalie Hoffman, Dylan and Caroline Lancaster, Stephanie Usmial, Zachary Ward, Kaitlynn, Stanley, and Leo Usmial and Kohl Roggero. She had many nieces and nephews. Mary was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; sister, Ann Lyals; brother, Nick Iwaniw; and special sister-in-law, Barbara Iwaniw. A special thank you from Mary and her family to the staff at Sanctuary at the Park for the wonderful, loving care she received for the past three years…she loved all of you. Mary was a member of St. Francis deSales Catholic Church and had been in the Bible study group. The MASS OF CHRISTIAN BURIAL will be 11 AM Tuesday at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church Marian Chapel with Rev. Fr. Michael P. Olson presiding. VISITATION with the family will be 2-4 & 6-8PM Monday at The Lee Chapel, 6291 S. Harvey St. (231) 798-1100 with the Rosary prayed at 7 PM. Burial will take place in Mona View Cemetery. Memorial Contributions in Mary’s name to St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church or Sanctuary at the Park will be appreciated. Share memories with the family online at www.sytsemafh.com. Vechnaya Pamyat (May her memory be Eternal).
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