With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Mary Lee (Stranahan) Wartell, who left us on January 28, 2026, at age 73, in Pentwater, Michigan. Born to Richard Warren Stranahan and Evelyn Mae (Fraser) Stranahan, their third daughter, on June 17, 1952 in Pontiac, Michigan. Mary lived most of her life in Rochester, Michigan graduating from Rochester High School in 1970.

Mary deeply loved her family and found great delight in the time spent with each one of them, especially her grandchildren. She was known for her effervescent personality and uncanny sense of humor. She was a 'decided' redhead with an infectious smile and laugh. So much fun to spend time with. Mary loved reading, writing, swimming and especially singing. She sang constantly and had the female leads in two Rochester Productions. She treasured all animals, crocheted, played piano and baked the best homemade bread.

Gifted with natural problem solving skills she co-owned and operated a vending company for many years then, when older, got her pilot's license and became a flight attendant with Northwest and Delta Airlines. Mary traveled much of the world, including China and Japan, Italy and Austria, to India and throughout the United States, caring for and seeing to the comfort of many passengers. Singing along and making many friends wherever she journeyed.

Mary is survived by her only son, David Wartell (Alexandria) of Bastrop, Texas, as well as his cherished children: Micheal Wartell and Lydia Wartell.

She is also survived by her siblings: Susan Kay Cerka, Barbara Ann (Lucy) Francisco, Jean Mae (Wayne) Ash, Joan Rae (Robert) Supernaw, Laura Lou (Edward) Czarniak, Linda Dee Stranahan, Richard Warren (Mimi) Taylor, as well as stepbrother: William Stranahan. Survived too by thirteen adored Nieces and Nephews, eleven cousins and, her best friend, Bonnie Sloan Daniels. She was preceded in death by her parents, Richard and Evelyn, as well as both maternal and paternal grandparents: Donald and Edith Fraser and William and Ella Stranahan. Also preceded in death by stepsister Beverly, three nephews, four cousins and brother-in-law Lawrence Cerka.

Though we will not hold any formal services at this time, we invite family and friends to celebrate Mary's life in their own special way. In remembrance, please listen to "How Can I Help You Say Goodbye' sung by Patty Loveless. One of Mary's favorite songs. She will be laid to rest in Hart Cemetery in Hart, Michigan.