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Jacqueline “Jackie” “Ma” Sayer (Niendorf-Forseman) passed away on Saturday, May 24, 2014 at Bronson Methodist Hospital after a brief illness.
Jackie was born in Three Rivers on January 4, 1930 to Dr. and Mrs. CF and Merna(Rathburn)Niendorf, joining her big sister Patricia(Robert)Thompson, who survives. She resided in Three Rivers most of her life, graduating from Three Rivers High School in 1947 and still kept in contact with her ”gang” of girls from school. She also attended Michigan State University and Lansing Business College.
In 1951 she was united in marriage to Burleigh V. Forseman. They were married for 32 years and raised four children who survive daughters, Marcie L. Weatherwax and Debra(Skip)Abel, both of Three Rivers,; son, Michael(Barb)Forseman of Walker, MI and Patrick(Julie) Forseman of Galesburg, MI.
Burleigh and Jackie owned and operated the Popcorn Stand in downtown Three Rivers for several years among other pursuits. She also began a cherished tradition of knitting Christmas stockings for her children and grandchildren until arthritis prevented her from continuing.
Jackie worked for many years as a luncheon cook at the Three Rivers Elks Lodge and became famous for her wonderful pies, often being called “the pie lady”. In the 1980’s she worked as a kitchen manager at the Best Western Three Rivers Inn, continuing her amazing pie baking.
On August 16, 1984 she married her later-in-life sweetheart, Howard S. Sayer who preceded her in death. They enjoyed 23 years of traveling, gardening, canning, raising ducks and chickens, and sharing all they had with those they loved. They delighted in entertaining and were well-known for their famous hog roasts
Besides her loving sister and children, she was a grandmother to 14, great grandmother, aunt, and friend to many more.
Per her wishes cremation has taken place and the family will receive friends from 2:00-4:00 p.m. on Sunday, June 1, 2014 at the Hohner Funeral Home. Private interment will take place at Riverside Cemetery.
Memorials in memory of Jackie may be directed to The American Cancer Society of the Charity of One’s Choice. Envelopes available at Hohner Funeral Home in care of arrangements.
Online condolences may be left for the family at www.hohnerfh.com
