Mae Marie Piper

She was born to James and Mabel (nee Watson) Mason in Ashland, Ohio on August 25, 1940 and spent her childhood on a small farm with her parents and 5 siblings. She graduated from Ashland High School. Mae often talked about one of her first jobs as a telephone operator. She was a secretary for many years at Faultless Rubber Company.

She met the love of her life Michael Piper, in the mid-70’s and they moved to Michigan together and have been married for 41 years. They discovered lake life and enjoyed sailing on Ford Lake and later Cass Lake. Mae loved hosting holidays at her home and cooking elaborate dinners.

Mae has battled through many challenges in her life; she was diagnosed with throat cancer 10+ years ago and fought through treatment to become cancer free. More recently, she began exhibiting the effects of dementia and most recently another cancer diagnosis. She fought bravely, with her beloved husband, Michael, by her side. Michael was an attentive and loving caregiver every step of the way.

Mae is survived by her husband, Michael; her children Donna Chenhalls (Ed), Tina Swift (Bill) and son Gary Richert (Sandy) and fierce protector, Yorkie, Tiki. She was also survived by 2 siblings – her older brother John and youngest sister, Betty, and dear friend Dianne Butala. She was preceded in death by her parents James and Mabel Mason, siblings, Raymond, Darryl, and Carolyn and Mother-in-Law Marjorie Piper.

Mae was a generous, loving wife, mother, sister and friend and will sorely missed. At her request, there will be no public services.

Memorial donations may be made to Waterford Senior Center Encore Program, 3621 Pontiac Lake Rd., Waterford, MI 48328