Mary Ann Jesweak

Mary Ann Jesweak of Cadillac passed away peacefully with her family by her side, Thursday, December 21, 2023 at Waterford Place in Jenison. She was 93. Mary Ann was born January 30, 1930 in Cadillac to Michael Joseph and Helena Elizabeth (Schaefer) Barry. On January 16, 1960 in Cadillac, she married Clayton C. Jesweak and he preceded her in death on July 8, 2013. She graduated from Cadillac High School, excelling early in typing and short-hand and was one of two students chosen to work at B.F. Goodrich while attending high school. The skills and training she acquired were sought after, which provided her with a litany of jobs in her early life, including a business law teacher, office administrator of an insurance agency and paralegal for a law firm, among others. She was proud of the fact that she was admitted to and attended Columbia University in New York City and walked the George Washington Bridge to and from classes. Mary Ann lived a life dedicated to serving her family and others. Her older brother, Pete, claimed she became the matriarch of the family the minute she entered the world. She did everything with love and attention to detail. As a stay-at-home mom, she managed all household duties, volunteered at the school and various organizations, took care of elderly parents, was a laundry queen and a great cook preparing homemade meals each night. She and Clayton had a welcoming nature and opened their home often, creating wonderful memories for family and friends. They provided a loving, stable home to foster children and exchange students for many years. Mary is considered a second mom by many. Mary Ann was steadfast in her Catholic faith. As a lifetime member of St. Ann in Cadillac, she headed the RCIA program for years and played a part in many’s journey to the faith. Some other things she loved and shared with others was her love of trains, skiing, ice skating, cooking, travel planning and heading and organizing pretty much anything that came her way. She was fierce in her love for family and friends, especially her baby sister, Barbara, who she watched over from youth and continued her entire life. Mary was a woman of wisdom offering a listening ear and sound advice to many. It has been said that she was a force to be reckoned with and consequently she has left us with countless “Mare” stories and treasured memories that will be talked about and cherished for years to come. She will be so dearly missed. Mary Ann is survived by daughters, Lori Ann (Timothy) Caniff of McBain, and Linda (David) Sayfie of Grand Rapids; grandchildren: Scott (Tonya) Jesweak, Malinda Jesweak, Jason Jesweak, Daniel (Chelsea) McRoberts, Thomas (Cheryl) McRoberts , Brian (Janelle) McRoberts, Mitchell Sayfie, Clayton Sayfie and David Sayfie; six great grandchildren. Mary Ann was preceded in death by her son, Richard Michael Jesweak, September 17, 2013. And, in addition, her siblings Catherine (Walter) Sielisch, Raymond (Laura) Wagner, Betty (Glen) Kelly, and Barbara (Patrick) Daley. Visitation with the family will be held at 10 AM Friday, January 5, 2024 at St. Ann Catholic Church in Cadillac followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11 AM with Rev. Fr. Michael Janowski as celebrant. All are welcome to join the family as they pray the rosary at 9:30 AM. Her final resting place will be at Mount Carmel Cemetery in Cadillac. The family would like to thank the amazing staff of Waterford Place, LEAVES Personal Care, and Faith Hospice for their loving care. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. Ann Catholic School, Leaves Personal Care, or Faith Hospice. An online guestbook is available at www.petersonfh.com

Mary Ann Jesweak

January 30, 1930 - December 21, 2023