Mary Jean VanSickle, age 83, of Grand Rapids, Michigan, beloved child of God, wife, grandmother, aunt and friend to all, passed away on Wednesday, August 14th, 2024.  Mary was born to Melvin and Julia Mead on May 4,1941, in Hart, Michigan, where she spent her childhood.

Mary went to a one room schoolhouse through the 8th grade and graduated from Hart High School in 1959, where she met and began her relationship with Norman. That relationship began a lifelong partnership and 62 years of marriage.

Mary proudly worked as a first-class receptionist throughout her career. She enjoyed gardening and tending to her flowers, camping with special friends, and spending time with her family. She valued her friendships with her card club and pie making girls. She enjoyed traveling with Norm as they went on to adventure to 45 of 50 states. Most memorable, they took an RV on a two-week trip through Canada from Indiana to Alaska. She was always active in her community and with her church family. She and Norm never missed a sporting, school, or any event involving their children and grandchildren. She was the neighborhood ambassador, making everyone feel safe and welcome, especially the neighborhood youngsters.

Mary is survived by her husband Norman; their two children, Brian VanSickle and daughter Lori (Jim) Crosby; two grandsons, Mowgli Crosby, James Baron (Julie) Crosby; siblings, Melvin Mead and Luanne Muneio, several nieces and nephews who are scattered around the US, and numerous special friends that she has treasured throughout her life.

Mary is preceded by her parents, Melvin and Julia; mother and father-in-law, Loyd & Maxine Van Sickle; and her sister-in-law, Carla Van Sickle; and brother-in-law Jim Muneio.

Mary's family will greet relatives and friends on Tuesday, August 20, 2024, at 10:00 a.m., with her Celebration of Life beginning at 11:00 a.m. at Brookside Christian Reformed Church, 3600 Kalamazoo Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49508.  A luncheon will follow.