Mary J. VanWagoner, 69, peacefully left us Saturday, August 6, 2011 at her home in Cedar Springs. Mary was born July 15, 1942 in Traverse City, the second daughter of Einar and Rose Muhonen. She graduated in 1960 from St. Francis High School then served in the Women's Army Corps. After her military service, she did clerical work for Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital in Grand Rapids. She returned home for several years to care for her children, then worked at the former Keeler Brass Company until retirement. During retirement, she worked part-time for Weight Watchers. In 1994, Mary met Tom VanWagoner at a singles dance in Greenville. They married the next year. During their sixteen years of marriage they enjoyed browsing yard sales, camping, playing cards and dominoes, and going to see her brother-in-law when he was playing in a band. Mary was known and loved for her great generosity and fun-loving spirit, her energy, and her willingness to help out in times of need. She is survived by her loving husband, John Thomas VanWagoner, her children; Kimberly (John) Hooper, Timothy Steinebach, Teresa (Brent) Jones, Lynette (Doug) Smith, Karl Steinebach, her sister Helen (Dave) Cheeseman, her brother George Muhonen, nine grandsons, two granddaughters and one great-granddaughter. She was preceded in death by brother, John Edward Muhonen, and sister, Barbara Rose Stachnik. A Celebration of Life is planned September 17 from 2pm-4pm at the Cedar Springs United Methodist Church. Remembrances may be made in the form desired by friends, or as contributions to the church or the American Cancer Society.
-- https://www.findagrave.com/memorial/82887234/mary-van_wagoner