Mary Ann Perez's Obituary
Mary Ann Perez age 74 of Six Lakes passed away on Sunday, June 11, 2023. Mary was born on July 24, 1948 in Owosso, Michigan the daughter of Frank D. and Blanche P. (Wilson) Arnold. After completing high school, Mary Ann continued her education earning an Associates Degree, a Bachelor’s Degree, and eventually her Master’s Degree in Criminal Justice. She was very proud and dedicated in being well educated.
Mary Ann always had a heart for family and children and devoted herself to being a Foster Parent to over 250 children, eventually adopting 11 of those children. She took great joy in opening her home and showing love and care to children in need of support and guidance. She always looked forward to the holidays because that would mean family was together celebrating. She was a huge “coffee lover” and with caring for that many children over the years – rarely was without a good cup in her hands. She enjoyed visits to the west side of the state where she could soak up the sun and relax in the waters of Lake Michigan while camping with her family. Mary Ann was always in search of a good bargain frequenting Flea Markets, Garage Sales, and Antique shops. One of her favorite hobbies was found in the peacefulness of fishing.
Mary was preceded in death by her parents Frank and Blanche; her bonus daughter Jodie Laverty; and her siblings Thomas, Frankie Lou, and Terry Arnold.
Mary will be greatly missed by her children Michelle (Tim) Rufener of Remus, Kristina Perez of Alabama, Nicole Perez of Big Rapids, Andrew (Tiffany) Perez of Owosso, Shannon Perez of Arkansas, Melissa (Terry) McDonnell of Lewiston, Michael Perez, Desiree Perez, Rebecca Perez, Elizabeth Perez, and Mary Ana Perez all of Six Lakes. Julie Dunson of Lakeview. She will also be missed by numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren; her brother William “Bill” Arnold of Roscommon; and her sister Sharon Sloan of Walhalla; Her best friend Karen Selbig of Owosso; along with many nieces and nephews, and hundreds of loved foster children.
A service of remembrance will be held for Mary Ann on Saturday, June 17 at 11:00 am at the Bachelor Cemetery in Fountain.
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