Mary Elizabeth Maten

Mary Elizabeth Maten died February 1, 2026, at My Doctors Inn in Sterling Heights. She was 93 years old. She was preceded in death by her husband of 50 years, Robert, and her brother James. She is survived by her sister Katherine, brother-in-law Stewart Dibley, sister-in-law Peggy Frye, brother-in-law Ralph Maten, sisters-in-law Glenda Maten and Marjorie Floro. Mary Elizabeth Maten (Frye) was born on April 5, 1932, to parents Leo and Elsie Frye in Detroit, MI. She graduated from MacKenzie HS in Detroit and Wayne State University with a BS in Education and became a teacher. In 1953, she married Robert Maten.

Mary substitute taught in the Lamphere School District for many years, often teaching music classes as she played the piano. Bob and Mary welcomed 5 children: Sheryl Foster, Suzanne (Rex) Brown, John (Judy) Maten, Debra (dec. Phil) Thompson, and Michael (Erin) Maten. Mary enjoyed many church activities at the United Methodist Church of Madison Heights, with many friendships. She also played cards weekly with a group of friends for many years, and was a member of the Madison Chorale. Over the years, her family expanded to include 15 grandchildren and 29 great-grandchildren. She will be missed by them and many nieces and nephews, and a host of other friends. Mullett Lake was her summer home, and the whole family continues to enjoy the family cottage every summer.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Madison Heights United Methodist Church or Breakthrough T1D (Formerly Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation).

A visitation will be held at Edward Swanson & Son Funeral Home, located at 30351 Dequindre Road, Madison Heights, MI 48071, on February 6, 2026, from 2:00 pm to 8:00 pm.

An in-state viewing will take place at Madison Heights United Methodist Church, 246 E 11 Mile Rd, Madison Heights, MI 48071, on February 7, 2026, from 10:00 am until the time of the funeral service at 11:00 am.

Immediately following the funeral service, a committal service will be held at White Chapel Memorial Park Cemetery, 621 W Long Lake Rd, Troy, MI 48098.