WAKEFIELD, Mich. - Mary Louise (nee Valesano) Halberg, 95, passed away on Sunday, Oct. 18, 2026.

She was born on June 20, 1931, in Wakefield, a daughter of Mary and Peter Valesano.

Mary grew up in Wakefield and lived there her entire life. She did leave Wakefield for three years to live in an assisted living facility in Wisconsin, but always wanted to return to Wakefield. There was no place better than Wakefield.

Mary dedicated her life to taking care of her children, grandchildren and husband. She spent many days looking over her cookbooks, deciding what the next meal would be. Above all, her family was the center of her life and her proudest achievement.

Mary had a strong faith and was a lifetime member of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Wakefield.

She is survived by her children, Gail (Bill) Kochelek and David (Diane) Halberg; her sister, Kathleen Auvinen; and her sister-in-law, Mary Ann Valesano. Also surviving are her cherished grandchildren, Dana Halberg, Jeremiah Halberg, Harmony Pavette, Anthony Kochelek, Lindsay Kochelek, Nicholas Kochelek, Holly Dewitt and Cory Halberg. Mary was the proud great-grandmother to Eva, Clare, Harper, Fox and Smith.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband, Merlyn, in 2010; her son, Merlyn Richard, in 1993; and her brother, Richard Valesano.

A private Rite of Committal will be held in the spring at Lakeside Cemetery, Wakefield.

Jerald Rocco, owner and manager of Lakeside Memorial Chapel Inc., in Wakefield, is assisting the family with arrangements. To send online condolences, please visit lakesidememorialchapel.com