Mary Angela (Laux) Rowe

Mary Angela (Laux) Rowe, 92 yrs, of Petersburg, MI, died Wednesday August 2, 2023, in Hampton Manor Dundee, MI. Born on November 8, 1930, in Toledo, Ohio. After graduating from high school, she attended Vo-Tech, and later worked at Owen Illinois in downtown Toledo, OH, managing payroll until her marriage to Donald Rowe on November 25, 1950. Their wedding day went down in record books as the coldest and snowiest November 25th; the camera froze, and many of their pictures didn't turn out. The snowfall caused several people to be stuck, and some couldn't venture out, even delaying their honeymoon to Florida.

Mary and Donald Rowe were married for an impressive 65 years and shared a passion for

traveling. They explored every state in the United States and journeyed through numerous

European countries. Every summer, they embarked on camper trips with their entire family for two weeks or more. Additionally, they frequently camped with friends, usually within 2-6 hours away. Both were actively involved in dance clubs; Don even played in a Dance Band for over 30 years, with Mary often accompanying him.  They loved music and were skilled ballroom dancers. Mary played the organ and the accordion from an early age. The couple relished entertaining friends and playing cards, golf, and bowling. Mary cherished her close-knit bunko group, her bowling team, and her friend group referred to as the “crazy 8s", who traveled together to places like Amish County, Antiquing, Vineyards, and Frankenmuth.

Throughout her life, Mary remained actively engaged in her children's school activities,

chaperoning class trips and organizing treats for various events. She was a devoted member of St. Alphonsus Catholic Church in Deerfield, MI, serving as treasurer for many years and actively participating in church committees, including the annual Thanksgiving gathering for those in need. Mary chaired the committee membership for the American Legion in Deerfield and was honored in the local Deerfield Parade, where she symbolically threw a wreath into the river to honor veterans. She was also actively involved in the Bi-centennial celebrations for Petersburg and Deerfield in the 1970s, creating costumes from 100 years prior.  Lastly enjoyed leading tours with local ladies and one in particular was the Smithsonian when on loan to the Old Mill Museum.

While raising her children, Mary maintained a large garden, preserving fruits and vegetables through canning and freezing. She took pride in preparing a substantial dinner for the family and her husband, who was a farmer, every night at precisely 6:00 pm. After her children left home, Mary worked at Elder Berman's one day a week in the Home Department, she enjoyed “straighten” the store”, interacting with customers and her co-workers.

Throughout her life, Mary's boundless energy and sociable nature allowed her to be a lively

participant in parties and group gatherings. One of her annual highlights was attending the

German American Festival every August with her husband when he was alive. Even later in life, she continued to attend with her family and a group of friends who lovingly referred to her as "Grandma." Her wit and cheer will surely be missed this year! 

Mary, was an avid reader, enjoyed crossed stitching, crocheting and knitting.  Each year Mary made all the grandchild an ornament, mostly crossed stitched of something the grandchild was involved in such as music or sports, each one different. 

Mary and Donald were blessed with five children, although they tragically lost one in infancy and another at the age of 60 to cancer. They were grandparents to ten grandchildren (nine) grandsons and one granddaughter) and enjoyed the presence of great-grandchildren: Dave (4), Rick (17), Tom (2), and Judy (2).

Friends may call at the Capaul Funeral Home, Ida, Mi, on Monday August 7, 2023, from 2-8PM. She will lie-in-state on Tuesday August 8, 2023, from 10AM until the Mass of the Resurrection at 11AM at Light of Christ Parish, St. Alphonsus Catholic Church, Deerfield, MI. Fr. Jeffrey Poll will officiate. Burial will be in St. Alphonsus Catholic Cemetery, Deerfield, MI.

Memorial contributions can be made to: Elara Caring Hospice or Light of Christ Catholic Parish.