WAKEFIELD, Mich. – Mary Louise (nee Russ) Glentz, 90, of Wakefield, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Tuesday, May 26, 2026.

Born on Nov. 15, 1935, Mary was raised in Wakefield, alongside her 11 siblings by her loving parents, John and Victoria Russ. She graduated from Wakefield High School in 1953 and carried the values of family, hard work and community with her throughout her life.

Mary later married the love of her life, Robert H. Glentz Sr., and together they began building a beautiful family. The couple lived in Detroit for several years, where they welcomed their five children before moving a few times and eventually settling in Colorado, where they raised their family and created a lifetime of cherished memories.

As a homemaker, Mary created more than a house, she created a home where everyone felt welcomed, loved and well fed, whether they were family, friends, or strangers who quickly became both.

Mary was a proud member of the Ladies’ Auxiliary to Wakefield Veterans of Foreign Wars 9084, and a supporting member in the women’s guild at her church, always willing to lend a helping hand, share a laugh, or brighten someone’s day with her unforgettable spirit. She had a personality that filled every room she walked into. She was funny, quick-witted, humble, giving and fiercely devoted to the people she loved. To know Mary was to know laughter, warmth and unconditional love.

Her family knew her as the “Christmas Queen.” No one loved Christmas quite like Mary. The lights, decorations, gatherings, music, gifts and traditions brought her endless joy, and she made the holiday magical for generations of her family. Christmas at Grandma Mary’s was never just a celebration, it was an experience filled with love, laughter, food and memories that will live on forever.

She also had a competitive streak that her family loved dearly. Mary was famous for her gin rummy games and took great pride in winning. She would proudly tape her “WINNER” scores to the refrigerator for everyone to admire. Something that became one of the many small but unforgettable things that made her so special.

Above all else, Mary loved her family deeply. She was the glue that held everyone together, the voice on the other end of the phone, the seat at the table that was always open and the heart of countless family memories. Her love was steady, comforting and constant through every season of life.

Mary is survived by her children, Robert H. Glentz Jr. (Susan), Kenneth Glentz, Charles Glentz, Gloria “Gigi” Glentz and Loren Glentz; two grandchildren, Kyla Glentz and Kenneth Glentz Jr.; four great-grandchildren; a sister, Patricia Singleton; and many cherished nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Robert H. Glentz Sr.; a son, Christopher Glentz; her daughter-in-law, Sharon Glentz; and many brothers and sisters.

The family will greet relatives and friends on Tuesday, June 9, from 10 to 10:45 a.m., at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, 407 Ascherman St., Wakefield, followed by a memorial service under the auspices of the Ladies’ Auxiliary to Wakefield VFW Post 9084. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m., with the Rev. Christian Flagstadt, celebrant. Also in attendance will be the Immaculate Conception Women’s Guild Honor Guard.

Rite of Committal and interment will take place at the Lakeside Cemetery, Wakefield.

A luncheon and time of fellowship will follow the cemetery service at the Wakefield VFW Post 9084.

Mary’s love, laughter and devotion to family will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew and loved her.

Jerald Rocco, owner and manager of Lakeside Memorial Chapel Inc., in Wakefield, is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences may be expressed online at lakesidememorialchapel.com.