Mary Elizabeth (Vanker) Thompson

Mary Elizabeth Thompson, 84, passed away of natural causes on August 6, 2017, at McLaren Hospital in Petoskey, MI, with her son at her side. At her request, no service will be held.

Born July 12, 1933, the daughter of John and Mildred Vanker, she grew up in Detroit, Michigan, attended St. Catherine High School, went on to graduate from the University of Michigan, and then earned her Master’s degree from the Wisconsin State University . She married John D. Thompson on August 11, 1956. Together they raised their three children in Michigan, Wisconsin, Iowa, Nova Scotia, and Florida. She taught high school in numerous places until her retirement at age 65. Her final residence was in Conroe, Texas. From childhood, until her death, she spent many wonderful summers “Up North” at the family home on Big Lake in Gaylord, Michigan.

Mary was preceded in death by her husband, parents, and brother John L. Vanker Jr. She is survived by her three children; Christine Van Hamersveld and husband Frank Van Hamersveld, Amy Shouldice Jones and husband Bruce Jones, and John D. Thompson Jr. and wife Michelle Thompson; as well as six grandchildren; Mark, Cahley, Jenna, Trevor, Hannah, and Ella.

An avid reader throughout her life, Mary also enjoyed sports (especially football), travel, gardening, and playing bridge.

The family suggests that anyone wishing to make a memorial donation consider the Otsego County Library at 700 S. Otsego Ave., Gaylord, MI 49735 (http://www.otsego.lib.mi.us).

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