Mary Ellerene Geline

Mary Ellerene (Dault) Geline died peacefully in her sleep on October 18, 2020, due to cancer complications. She was 91. She was dearly loved by her daughters Kari (Edward) Geline-Haese, Jodi Geline, and Cami (Rob) Chambers, and was the proud grandmother to granddaughter Mattie Barnhart, daughter of Jodi Geline. Mary is reunited in heaven with her sons Douglas and Gregory Geline, her brothers John (Jack) and Bill Dault, and her parents Florence and Theodore Dault.

Mary, known as Muzzy to friends and family, was born June 20, 1929, and grew up in Perronville, Michigan, on a farm, eventually moving to Powers as a Junior in high school. She worked in her Father’s hardware store until graduation and then went on to Beauty School in Escanaba, MI. A standout of her generation, she was an entrepreneur from an early age, who started her own hair salon about the age of 21 and successfully operated the popular business through 2001 at age 72 when she retired. During this busy time, she was a dedicated mother who lovingly raised her five children, enjoyed Friday fish fries at the “Big R” with her cherished friends, golfed often, and maintained a gorgeously landscaped yard full of flowers.

Thinking of Mary, one thinks of her flawless style and excellent taste. She understood that people feel good when they feel good about themselves and she took joy in using her artistic skills to help people look their best. Mary could size up the best way to create a warmly welcoming room and her styling advice gave peace of mind to those worrying about what to wear for any occasion. Her handmade jewelry is a source of joy to everyone lucky enough to wear one of her pieces. Finally, as a 10-year Wisconsin resident, it is worth noting that she preferred her Old Fashioneds made neither sweet nor sour but with club soda and Jim Beam Whiskey, garnished with a cinnamon stick and orange slice, muddled of course. Mary was a huge Packers fan and felt so much closer to the Team when she moved to Wisconsin. Mary also enjoyed a mean game of Rummikub with her lifelong friend, Peggy.

Thank you to all the loving and caring nurses and social workers from Unity Hospice for their enduring care to our beloved Mother during her illness. You have all touched our hearts.

Friends and family are invited to attend a celebration of Mary’s long and beautiful life on November 20th, 2020, at the Allo Coolman Funeral Home in Spalding, MI, W3755 US Hwy 2&41. Visitation will be from 11:00 – 12:30, followed by a small service at 12:30. Lunch to follow at “R Place”, W3707 US Hwy 2&41.