Mary Jean Mondrella
Big Rapids – Mary “Jean” Mondrella, 87, of Big Rapids, passed away Wednesday, February 4, 2009, at her residence.
She was born November 1, 1921, in Flint, the daughter of Joseph and Louisa (Wachter) Stratz, lived in Big Rapids most of her life, and graduated from Big Rapids High School in 1939.
Jean was a lifetime active member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Big Rapids, where she served for many years as President of the Altar Society. She was also a member of the Ladies Auxiliaries of the Amercian Legion Post #98, the AmVets Post #1941, the Aerie Eagles Lodge #2535, the VFW and the Moose Lodge. She also enjoyed playing cards and socializing with her friends at the Senior Center.
For many years, Jean worked for the Selective Services Office in Big Rapids during the Vietnam era. She also worked as a real estate agent in the Canadian Lakes and Big Rapids area for several years.
On October 16, 1948, Jean married Richard F. Mondrella, who preceded her in death on January 1, 2001. Surviving are 3 sons, Michael (Toni) of Kentwood, Mark of Big Rapids, and Daniel (Danette) of Big Rapids; 2 daughters, Marie (Greg) Key of Big Rapids, and Melanie Mondrella (David Hunt) of Big Rapids; 6 grandchildren, Lisa, Adam, Nikki, Michael Jr., Brittney, and Keith; 3 great-grandchildren; and several nieces, nephews and cousins. Jean was also preceded in death by a granddaughter Alishia.
The Mass of Resurrection will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m., Friday, February 6, 2009, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Big Rapids, with Father Lam T. Le officiating. Spring burial will be in the Mt. Carmel Cemetery. Jean’s family will greet friends at the church today (Thursday) from 2:00-4:00 p.m. and 6:00-8:00 p.m., with Rosary Services beginning at 7:00 p.m. Friends may also call after 10:00 a.m. on Friday at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions for the St. Mary’s Church Bell Tower Fund may be left at the church or in care of the Mohnke Funeral Home in Big Rapids, where arrangements were entrusted. Condolences may be left online at www.mohnkefuneralhome.com.
5 Responses to “Mary Jean Mondrella”
Condolences - Leave a Condolence
You must be logged in to send a condolence.
On behalf of all of the MacFarlanes, our heartfelt sympathy to the family. Jean was a very special person and friend to our family and will certainly be missed by many.
Especially enjoyable to me were her stories from high school days running around with the Fitzs, Tighes, and my dad… (Those stories shot down dad’s claims to have “Never done anything wild or gotten into trouble”!)
Now, yet one more member of that “Greatest Generation” has gone to meet again, so many of the others….but never to be forgotten in our hearts!
Shawn MacFarlane
Paris, MI
Dear Michael, Mark, Marie, Melanie and Dan,
I am so sorry to hear of Jean’s sudden transition.
She will always be remembered by me as one of the original “spice girls”. She had unending energy and my Mother, Martha Whalen, who is with me in Denver, said she still does!
Mom also mentioned how she would always remember a “rice” dish for Father Lam at the St Paul Friday potluck.
I wish I could be there for the funeral…..but can’t.
I’ll be thinking of you all and praying for your peace and Jean’s Joy!
Bless you all!
Colleen Whalen Casper
Martha Whalen
It always seemed like Jean was always around, not just a friend, she is family. I wish I could be there with you all. God Bless you all! The world has lost a sainted Lady. I loved seeing her on the last couple trips to Big Rapids, I will truly miss her.
With Love!
John & Cathy Fitzgerald
Lakewood Colorado
fitzmarine11@comcast.net
Dear Mondrella Family
Renee’ and I are so saddened to hear of your mother’s passing. It seems like it was such a short time ago that my mother, who didn’t drive, was waiting for Jean to pick her up to drive to an Altar Society function or some other event at St. Mary’s. As I remember your mother, I recall a woman of strength, intelligence, quick wit and reverence for her God. May you all find solace in your fond memories and the fact that many were touched by your mother’s fine character. Our thoughts and prayers are with each of you.
Fondly,
Steve & Renee’ Adriaanse
I am sorry for your loss. Your are in the thoughts and prayers of many friends.
Beth Waiess (Weis)
St. Johns, MI