Mary Ella Rose Imel, 91, passed away at her home in Grand Rapids, Michigan on October 4, 2024 after a long and fulfilling life.

Mary was born Mary Ella Rose Bell on July 12, 1933 in Lake City, Mchigan.

After raising her seven children, she spent many years surrounded by family. Preceding her in death are her father and mother, Alvin Bell and Frederica Lindsay, and 5 of her siblings. Also preceding in death are her four children, Marcia, Steven, Dennis, and Debra, who she is now reunited with in heaven.

Her sister, Emily Vanamburg of Bozeman, Montana, survives, as do three of her children: Michael Kaa Burge and Tamara Lynn Myers, who resided with her in their home in Grand Rapids, and Mary "Sue" Burge who resides in Tennessee; many grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

She spent the last decade enjoying her home with her children, Mike and Tammy,  watching the world change, but she always valued living simply and humbly. She enjoyed watching the youngest of the four generations play together, reminding them to shut the door and turn the lights off, and was so happy to receive their hugs and affection.

She appreciated nature, flowers, and music, especially hymns she often sang with her daughter, Sue. She enjoyed feeding the winter birds and critters outdoors.  The youngest generation remembers her humming the Christmas song "Up on the Rooftop" all year long.

Her family will miss her and be remembered as a kind, silly, loving soul.