Mary Jean (Mills) Denker, age 86, beloved by all who knew her, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family at her home in Brimley, Michigan, on April 19, 2024. She was born on June 28, 1937, in Brimley, to Robert and Verna (Wynn) Mills.
Mary was a devout member of her church and found solace and community in her faith. Embodying its values of compassion and service. She was a pillar of strength, kindness and touched the lives of many through her unwavering love and generosity. Mary found immense joy in attending Brimley basketball games, where her infectious enthusiasm and spirited cheers uplifted both players and fans alike. She also adored her time spent at Laker Hockey games, where she reveled in the excitement of the sport and the camaraderie of fellow fans. Her passion for baking and card games was renowned, and she eagerly welcomed all visitors to join her in a friendly round of cards while enjoying a plethora of yummy treats. She was known for being an avid cheater during these card games but would admittedly deny these claims. Mary cherished her time spent with family, creating memories that will forever live on in the hearts of those she leaves behind. She was completely devoted to her family, friends, and community, always ready to lend a helping hand or a listening ear. Her selflessness, kindness, and unwavering love enriched the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Mary was actively involved with the VFW auxiliary, dedicating her time to helping with Friday fish fries, the Brimley 4th of July Parade, and presenting the scholarship awards at Brimley schools where she was known for her warm smile and welcoming presence that made everyone feel loved. She and her husband will long be remembered through the Claude and Mary Denker Scholarship Fund at Lake Superior State University.
Mary is survived by her children, Marna Singleton, Bud (Melissa) Denker, Kevin (Karen) Denker; grandchildren, Richard (Nichole) Singleton, Jessica Singleton, Christian Denker, Cameron Denker; great-grandchildren, Mackenzie Singleton, Meghan Singleton, Mekenzie Brennan; and sister, Isabell (Richard) McKay.
Mary was preceded in death her husband, Claude; parents, Bob and Verna Mills; in-laws, Claude and Erma; and siblings, Harris Mills, Muriel McKiddie, June Olds, Mona Spinuzza, Catherine Wilcox, Bill Mills, and Lila Miller.
Mary will be deeply missed by her family and friends, but her legacy of love, laughter, community, faith, and kindness will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know her. The family is especially thankful for her longtime friend Darlene (Rudy) Hyvarinen, and cousins Ron and Teresa Mills for their unwavering companionship and love.
A Celebration of Mary's life will be held on April 24, 2024, from 10 AM – 11AM with funeral service to follow at Brimley Congregational Church, 6984 M-221, Brimley, MI 49715.
Final resting place will be at Oaklawn Chapel Gardens, Bruce Township, Michigan.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in Mary’s honor to the Brimley Congregational Church, 6984 M-221, Brimley, MI 49715, or the Brimley VFW Auxiliary, 8968 W. M-28 Brimley, MI 49715.
Family Life Funeral Homes assisted the family with arrangements. Condolences may be left to the family at www.familylifefh.com.
