Mary Ann Spaan (Birney)

SPAAN, (BIRNEY) MARY ANN

Age 99, passed away peacefully on Friday, June 12th, 2026. Mary Ann was preceded in death by her husband Arnie, son Michael, and son in law Ken Risinger. She is survived by her four children, Cynthia Risinger, Patrick Spaan, Johanna (Ken) Duffek, Mark (Karen) Spaan, Grandchildren: Jenny (Brad) Lincoln, Greg (Chrissy) Risinger, Jeff (Markie) Risinger, Steve Risinger, Aileen Risinger, Adrianne (Ryan) Earl, Miles Spaan. Great Grandchildren: Emily and Connor Murphy, Ira Jones and Alec Risinger, Taylor Risinger, Wyatt and Tucker Earl Great, Great Grandchildren: Realyn Risinger

Mary Ann was born in Lansing, Michigan July 25, 1926. She grew up in the shadow of the State Capitol Building, where she helped out in her father’s restaurant. Mary Ann honed her social skills there making it a relaxing and delicious place to have a meal. She graduated from Lansing Sexton High School in the middle of WWII (1943). She later attended Michigan State University, where she met her future husband, Arnie, who had returned from the war in the Pacific Theater. Mary Ann graduated MSU with a degree in education, later earning her masters degree. She went on to teach at the elementary level in Albion and Jackson for over 30 years, retiring from JPS in 1986. Being a teacher and always a teacher, Mary Ann continued to be a lifelong learner and constant advocate of anything that benefited education. She and Arnie later volunteered their time and teaching abilities to St. Stans Catholic School, where they continued to make a positive impact on all the children they taught even in retirement. Travel, especially camping was a true joy for Mary Ann. Having the summers off allowed her and our family to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of our mitten state! In the fall Mary Ann and Arnie would be found in Spartan Stadium cheering on her beloved Spartans for 30 years! The Jackson Dance Club provided Mary Ann and Arnie many fun nights with nice people, as well as the opportunity to show off their wonderful dancing moves! Mary Ann was a person of strong faith. She was a member of Queens Catholic Church for over 50 years and dedicated many hours of prayer at the adoration chapel. Integrity, dedication, respect, honesty, and love are virtues Mary Ann adhered to her entire life. She was a strong loving mother who pushed those she loved to be the best they could be, like an excellent teacher does! What more could you ask! She will be cherished and greatly missed by all who knew and loved her!

Thanks to Senior Moments for their loving care of our mom, especially to Lena Faling (Owner), Heather, Denise, Tracey, Taylor, Hailey, Tori and Wendy.

We also want to give a special thank you to Mary Anne Riley-Seamans of Queens Parish who brought mom communion weekly and brightened her day with friendly words, prayer and delicious treats.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Queen of the Miraculous Medal Catholic Church on Thursday, June 18, 2026 at 10:30 AM with Fr. Timothy MacDonald officiating. Cremation will follow the Funeral Mass.

The family will receive friends at Queen’s Church on Thursday, June 18, 2026 from 9:30 to 10:30 AM.

In lieu of flowers contributions to Cascades Humane Society would be appreciated.