Mary Elaine Wilsberg's Obituary
Mary Elaine Wilsberg died peacefully at her home Thursday evening, January 19th. Born June 29, 1925 to Doris and Frank Wilsberg, Mary lived on Clinton Street in Grand Haven early in her life and later in her retirement.
Mary attended Grand Haven schools, graduating at the top of her class in 1943. Attending the University of Michigan, Mary majored in education and was a member of the Delta Delta Delta sorority. Mary enjoyed numerous house parties on the beaches of Grand Haven with her Grand Haven High School class and Michigan sorority sisters. Graduating in 1947, Mary taught kindergarten in the Ann Arbor School System, later obtaining a Masters in Education at the University of Michigan in 1952. Living in Grand Haven, Mary taught second grade for three years at Central School.
Committed to education, Mary moved to Columbus, Ohio to teach at Ohio State’s University School for nine years. Her next move was to Columbia University, Teacher’s College, where in 1964 Mary obtained her Doctorate (Ed.D.). Mary always had a fondness for New York City, and following her retirement enjoyed many trips to the city to see a play or musical and a favorite museum, as well as to spend time with friends.
Mary was an Associate Professor at Queen’s College teaching graduate students how to teach reading. For several years she served as Chairman of the Elementary Education Department. Her passion was knowing that all children enjoy reading.
Mary’s hobbies included traveling, gardening, reading, music and fine dining. During one sabbatical she enjoyed a six month trip around the world spending special times in Germany, Jaipur, Bangkok, Kashmir and Japan. An avid reader she read the Wall Street Journal daily and continued to give advice on how to grow roses.
Mary belonged to the First Presbyterian Church, Tri-Cities Garden Club, Tuesday Musical, a Thursday Book Club, University of Michigan Alumni Association, Columbia University Club and Spring Lake Country Club. She was a member of the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation Legacy Society.
Survivors include cousins in Grand Haven, New York, and Washington and dear friends in the Tri-Cities, New York and Florida.
Services to celebrate Mary’s life will be held Friday, June 29, 2012 at 4:00 p.m. at the First Presbyterian Church with a reception following at the Spring Lake Country Club. That day would have been her 87th birthday.
Memorials may be made to the Mary E. Wilsberg Scholarship Fund, Grand Haven Area Community Foundation, One South Harbor, Grand Haven, MI 49417 where Mary has established a scholarship fund with her estate to benefit Tri-City students who have excelled academically, as well as demonstrating community participation and service to others. Please sign the family’s online guest book at www.vbkfuneralhome.com
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