WLKM Radio 95.9 FM
Mary Ann “Ma” Claridge, age 95, of Marcellus, transitioned peacefully, Sunday, December 6, 2020 at her home surrounded by her family and friends.
Mary Ann “Ma” was born in Crown Point, IN on 4/21/1925 the daughter of Claude Roswell Pettibone and Helen Irene (Hixon) Pettibone.
On November 4, 1949, at Michigan State University, she married John Claridge who preceded her in death.
Ma was a Teacher, teaching for many years History & Athletics Department at Marcellus High School. She was an avid supporter/organizer for the female sport/athletics department that Marcellus Schools have today.
Ma enjoyed the outdoors especially farming, trap shooting, gardening, boating, and golfing. She had a open door policy where nobody was turned away hungry or homeless. She would rather be outside running the brush hog than inside cleaning the house.
Ma had a deep passion for her alumni’s basketball department at Indiana University and especially Bobby Knight. Each year she devoted time to watch March Madness and Baseball faithfully. She was also a loyal and devoted fan for her beloved team, the Chicago Cubs and was very happy to see them win the 2016 World Series.
Ma is survived by her children, Joanna Zimmerman of Marcellus, Beth (Alan) Sampsell of Lawton, Amy Lee Sehy & life partner Steve Burrows of Pellston; 5 grand children Mary & Fred Sibley, Kelly Sehy, Joseph & Kim Zimmerman, Amanda Remington; 10 great grandchildren, 5 great-great grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.
Ma is preceded in death by her husband John Claridge; two sisters, Amy Dawley and Patricia Briggs, her son-in-law Paul Zimmerman, Sr., grandson Paul Zimmerman, Jr.; father Claude Roswell Pettibone and mother Helen Irene (Hixon) Pettibone.
Cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life will take place in the spring. Memorial donations may be directed to the Marcellus Township Library 205 E. Main ST, Marcellus, MI 49067. Online condolences may be left at www.materralstonfuneralhome.com.
Ma’s family is truly touched and humbled by the outpouring of sympathy and love from the community and her friends.
