Obituary of Mary Ellen Sue Arft

Arft, Mary Ellen Birch Run, Michigan Mary Ellen passed away Saturday, January 9, 2021 at the age of 91. She was born in Saginaw Michigan November 26, 1929, to the late Edna May and William Alois Schultz. Mary Ellen graduated from Saginaw High School in 1947. She met Vern Arft, the love of her life, at the Brockway Roller Rink in 1949, and began their lifelong journey of love on September 15, 1951. They celebrated 41 years of marriage before Vern passed away November 7, 1992. Mary Ellen worked at Michigan Bell, Bauer’s Jewelry, and Eaton Manufacturing. In her later adult life, she was head housemother at Ashwald Girls Home in Frankenmuth, delivered photos for Saginaw Photo, and ended her working career as a “Lunch Lady” for Frankenmuth Schools. She also volunteered for many years at Covenant Hospital in Saginaw. Mary Ellen and Vern were active in their church, Faith Lutheran, in Bridgeport, prior to becoming a member of St. Matthew’s in Bridgeport. She and Vern were lifetime members of the Germania Club in Saginaw, where they bowled and golfed, and where Mary Ellen participated in many Bowlers Shows. She was an instant friend to all who knew her. Her favorite place was at the lake, playing cards, having a Bloody Mary, and chatting with anyone who came by. Golf cart and boat rides brought her much joy. She is survived by 2 daughters, Cynthia (Robert) Parker and Karen Klein; granddaughters, Rachel Parker (and partner Lacy Ritchie), and Brittany (Johnathan) Nichols; her sister, Barbara Bowns; and many friends who also cherish her memory. Mary Ellen was predeceased by her husband, Vern; 3 brothers, Jay, Thomas and Jack Schultz; dear friend, Phyllis Smith, with whom she “went steady” with from kindergarten until Phyllis passed away in 2013; son-in-law, Dale Klein; and brother-in-law, David Bowns. As Mary Ellen wished, cremation has taken place and a private graveside service will be scheduled at a later date with Pastor Rheanna Goodrich officiating. The family wishes to thank the 7th floor staff at Covenant Harrison for their incredible care and communication, the staff of New Hope Valley Assisted Living for providing her with joy and peace in her last months, and those at Toni and Trish House for their care and dedication. In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider Memorial Contributions to St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church, Bridgeport Michigan or the Toni and Trish House in Auburn. To sign online guestbook, visit www.cremationsocietymidmi.com Arrangements made with Cremation Society of Mid Michigan 1-989-892-1772.