Mary Ann Sherwood

Mary Ann Sherwood, age 69, passed away August 3, 2008 at her home after a long illness. She was born on June 4, 1939 in Grand Haven to Marion A. and Ruth (Krause) Sherwood, who preceded her in death in 1999 and 1990, respectively. After graduating from Grand Haven High School, Mary Ann earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Western Michigan University. She taught third grade in Bloomfield Hills, MI and Mamaroneck, NY before returning to Grand Haven in 1968 to establish the special education reading program for K-6 in the Grand Haven Area Public Schools. During this time, she also earned masters degrees from Michigan State University and Wayne State University. She loved helping children achieve their potential. Unfortunately, her teaching career was cut short due to complications from a brain tumor. Mary Ann was very active in the community, serving on the boards of the Tri-Cities Area United Way and Tri-Cities Ministries Counseling. She was also an active member of the League of Women Voters and First Presbyterian Church of Grand Haven. She is survived by her sister, Lynne Sherwood of Spring Lake; special cousins Peter (Gordeen) Sherwood and Budge (Marilyn) Sherwood whose parents were brother and sister to Marion and Ruth; her many wonderful caregivers; and many other cousins. A Celebration of Mary Ann's life will be held on Thursday, August 14, at 4:00 p.m. at First Presbyterian Church of Grand Haven with Rev. Karin Fowler officiating. Friends may meet the family from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. Wednesday, August 13, at VanZantwick Bartels Kammeraad Funeral Home in Grand Haven. Please use the new EAST entrance off of 7th Street. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Hospice of North Ottawa Community, Tri-Cities Ministries, the Greatest Needs Fund at the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation, or a charity of your choice.