Mary Margaret Madonna Martinson, age 69, of Escanaba, passed away peacefully on Wednesday March 16, 2022, at Pinecrest Medical Care Facility in Powers.
She was born on February 16, 1953, in Escanaba, MI, daughter of John and Madonna LaBrie. Mary attended St. Joseph Catholic School in Escanaba along with her siblings and graduated from Escanaba High School. Later in life, while raising a family, she went back to school and earned a Bachelor’s in Business from Lake Superior State University. Mary was extremely proud of this accomplishment, and used her degree as a bookkeeper for years, until her Multiple Sclerosis progressed. Mary was actively involved in the community, volunteering her time through the Delta County Childbirth Association, as well as the YMCA. Later in live, Mary pursued her love of singing further and joined the Bay de Noc Choral Society. In addition to singing, Mary enjoyed dancing and playing card games, especially cribbage. She left a lasting impression to anyone she met with her cheerful disposition and sense of humor.
Among survivors are her daughters Jamie Higdon and Tricia (Andrew) Porter, grandchildren Bryce Higdon, Brie Higdon and Scott Porter, sisters Judy (Richard) Crump and Deborah Hixon, brother John (Cheryl) LaBrie, many nieces and nephews, as well as grandnieces and grandnephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, infant sister Laura, and sister Cheryl Walls.
Family will receive friends on Monday April 11, 2022, from 2:00PM to 4:00PM, at St. Anne Church in Escanaba. Mass of Christian Burial will follow visiting hours on Monday April 11, 2022, at 4:00PM, at St. Anne Church in Escanaba, with Rev. Fr. Fran DeGroot officiating. Luncheon will follow in the St. Anne Parish Hall. The Skradski Family Funeral Homes of Delta County are assisting with arrangements.
Mary’s family wish to thank Pinecrest Medical Care Facility, as well as UPHS Hospice for their devoted care especially hospice nurse Jill Hider and Pastor Louis Hague.
Mary Cole - Fountain Inn, SC
Mary was an absolute sweetheart, always cheerful and upbeat no matter what she was going through. After being away from the U. P., I often wondered how Mary was doing. I was saddened to see her obit, however was overjoyed to learn she made it this far and is now at peace. She truly made the world a better place. My heartfelt condolences to her family and loved ones. May God hold you in the palm of His hand
Kay Pryal - Gladstone , Mi
Mary was my first friend when we moved to Escanaba and I met her on the school bus. She has been a steadfast and loyal friend since then. Always upbeat and positive as we shared stories about raising our children who were about the same age! We lived in Chicago then but visited her when in town. She never complained about anything that life presented and was a gracious example to us all. With heart filled sorrow I send my condolences.
Priscilla Hutchens Weber - Escanaba, MI, MI
Besides being my neighbor for many years Mary & I took a college Algebra class together. We ended up in a study group together & Mary made the group fun while keeping us focused. God’s blessings to her family & friends, I know she will be missed.