Rose Marie Mikesell's Obituary
Rose Marie (Valliere) Mikesell, 95 years young, entered into eternal rest on Friday, September 3, 2021 at the Leila and Cyrus Poppen Hospice Residence. She was born July 22, 1926 to Edwidge (Dion) and Arthur Valliere at the family home on Sanford St., she was the last of 12 children. Rose Marie attended St. Jeans School except for 2 years when she studied at Mt. Mercy Academy in Grand Rapids. After high school, she went to Mercy College in Detroit, where she attained an Associates Degree in Sociology. Rose Marie married Harry A. Mikesell on February 12, 1949 and together raised 7 children. For the majority of her life, Rose Marie was a homemaker but talked fondly of a job at the American Red Cross during the war years and then later in life as an assistant manager of an apartment complex. She volunteered in many areas, notably Harbor Hospice. She was a member of St. Mary’s Cemetery Board and Friends of Hackley Library. She was a longtime member of St. Jeans Catholic Church and more recently, Our Lady of Grace. She belonged to many church councils, including the St. Annes Society, St. Jeans Choir, Finance Council, lay distributors, and was also a faithful participant of the adoration of the blessed sacrament. Rose Marie is survived by 4 children: David (Linda) Mikesell, Jane (Mark) Willea, Paul (Joyce) Mikesell, and Steven Mikesell; 6 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; 3 great-great-grandchildren with another one due in January; and a sister-in-law, Joan Valliere. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Harry; 3 children: James, Nanette, and Laura; 8 brothers and 3 sisters. Rose Marie let her deep conviction in her faith and religion guide her in her life’s journey, enduring the death of 3 beloved children. She loved music, whether it was singing or just listening. She was an avid reader and always ready to share a good book. Rose Marie loved playing cards and belonged to several bridge clubs most of her adult life. She was also renown for sending cards, notes, get wells, and thank you’s. For her large extended family, she never forgot a birthday card, often with some money included. Rose Marie was a strong courageous woman, whose legacy will lovingly live on. When diagnosed with terminal cancer in February of 2021, she pledged to herself to always be upbeat and not let negativity gain control. By all accounts, she adhered to this philosophy. An inspiration to those around her. A special thanks to those who made personal visits. These contacts were extremely cheering to her. Also, to the entire staff at the Poppen Residence, her time there flourished from your care. The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 10:30 AM Friday, September 17, 2021 at Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church with the Rev. Fr. Kyle J. Kilpatrick presiding and the Rev. Fr. William F. Zink as concelebrant. Visitation with the family will be one hour prior to the mass at the church. Burial will take place in St. Mary’s Cemetery. MEMORIALS to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or the Salvation Army will be appreciated. Share memories with the family at their online Guest Book at www.sytsemafh.com Arrangements by The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral and Cremation Services, 6291 S. Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444 (231) 798-1100
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