Mary Kathryn Newman, 86, of Maple City, passed away at home early Saturday morning, February 3, 2024 surrounded by her loving family.

Mary was born in Traverse City, MI to the late James X. and Bethel M. (Saunders) Sullivan on March 14, 1937. She graduated from the old Traverse City Central School in Spring 1957. As a young lady, Mary met her one true love, Duane Newman Gilbert, at a community dance in Glen Arbor. They were married on October 26, 1957 at the Grawn United Methodist Church. Together they lovingly raised three wonderful children - Dolores, Timothy and George – on their Newman Centennial Farm.

While raising a family with Duane, she helped with farm work, drove school bus for 28 years and cleaned cottages in summers. Mary served Kasson Township residents as an Election Inspector and Election Chairperson for many years. Although Mary retired from school bus driving and serving as an election official, she remained deeply involved in the farm and garden activities with her family.

Mary loved to dance and socialize. She liked to go to yard sales and auction sales, always seeking treasures. She shared of herself in volunteer efforts, dedicating herself for many years as a member Old Settlers Picnic Ground Association. She was also an active member of the Cherry Capital Model A Club for years and held various offices, including President.

Mary enjoyed participation in the Old Engine Show, Buckley, MI, and was always ready to encourage the children of family and friends who were showing their 4-H projects at the Northwestern Michigan Fair.

Mary is survived by her devoted husband of 66 years, Duane;her children Dolores “Dee” (Kelley) Wilkinson, Timothy Newman, George (Ginger) Newman; grandchildren Laura (Adam) Nemeskal, Andrea (Ben) Cooper, Keira Newman, Katelyn Newman and Oliver Newman; great grandchildren Gideon and Clayton Nemeskal; sisterin- law Bonnie Sullivan; bonus grandsons Chris (Sarah) DeMoulpied and their children Grace and Owen, Brandon DeMoulpied and Brian Wilkinson; dear friends Sally Lewis and Beverly Shillington, along with many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins, neighbors-likefamily and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Pat, an infant nephew Kelley, and a granddaughter who was quietly called to heaven before she was born.

Memorial contributions in Mary’s name may be directed to Old Settlers Picnic Ground Association.

A memorial Celebration of Life gathering will be held at the family farm in late spring/early summer. Kindly share thoughts and memories at www.reynoldsjonkhoff .com.