Mary Lou Pearce

It is with profound sadness that we bid farewell to Mary Lou Pearce, Mother, Grandmother, Aunt and friend. Mary Lou passed away at home on April 11, 2024 at the age of 93. Her unwavering faith and boundless love touched the lives of all who knew her. Mary Lou leaves behind a legacy of love that will be remembered by all who knew her. She is survived by her daughter Theresa Pearce, son Boyd Pearce (Jill), Grandson Tony Lis, Son in Law Ed Lis, Sister in Law Gloria LaPonsie, many nieces, nephews and cousins. Mary Lou was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 59 years Boyd H Pearce, her Father Joseph E LaPonsie, Mother Sadie Francis (Visner) LaPonsie, Brothers Joseph (Rose), William (Mildred) James, Jack Sr. As a young girl Mary Lou loved dance and took lessons until becoming a certified dance instructor at Osterhouse Dance Studio. In 1953 Mary Lou met the love of her life and permanent dance partner at Stan Pearce’s (brother in law) wedding where Boyd was best man and bartender. They were married in February 1954 at St Alphonus Church in Grand Rapids. As a devout Catholic Mary Lou found solace and strength in her faith. She was involved in many activities in the Grand Rapids Diocese including a participant in the Cursillo movement and rosary circles. Her prayers were a source of comfort and guidance for many. Beyond her religious devotion Mary Lou was cherished for her nurturing spirit. Her home was always open to welcome family, friends or strangers with a warm smile and a delicious meal. Stories and laughter filled the rooms and created memories that will be treasured for generations to come. A funeral Mass to celebrate Mary Lou's life will be held on Tuesday, April 16th at St Anthony’s of Padua Catholic Church. Visitation with the family will be at 10:00am followed by funeral mass at 11:00. A luncheon will follow afterward. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Emanuel Hospice of Grand Rapids https://emmanuelhospice.org/wishlist-donations/ Dominican Sisters at 111 Lakeside Dr. NE 49505 or https://www.grdominicans.org/give-a-gift/ in remembrance of Mary Lou Pearce.

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Mary Lou Pearce

January 9, 1931 - April 11, 2024