Mary Margaret Gieske

Mary Margaret was born in Detroit, Michigan, the youngest daughter of John Alexander and Adeleine Marie Trotter. She grew up in Midland, Michigan, attended St. Briget Grade School and graduated from St. Mary’s High School in Bay City. Mary Margaret attended Mercy College, Detroit for 2 years and graduated with a BA in Childhood Education from Marygrove College, Detroit. Mary Margaret was introduced to her future husband, Paul Gieske, by one of her college roommates, became engaged and married soon after graduation in 1966.

Mary Margaret is survived by her husband of 60 years, Paul Joseph Gieske, and their 4 children: Christopher Paul Gieske, Anne Marie Fleming, Eric John Gieske and Kathryn Lynn Oranchak (Scott). She is the beloved Grandmother of Jaden Nicole Fleming and Ryder Scott Fleming. Also, a cherished cousin to her many Canadian relatives. A beloved Aunt to her sister’s children, Wendy Herrmann and Scott Herrmann.

Mary Margaret is proceeded in death by her parents and older sister, Nancy Claire Herrmann.

Mary Margaret was a lifelong Catholic, a faithful loving wife and an active parishioner of St Aidan Church, Livonia.

A funeral mass will be held on November 19, 2026, at 9:30 AM at St. Aidan Church, 17500 Farmington Rd, Livonia. A rosary will be said on her behalf at the Harry J Will Funeral Home, 37000 Six Mile Rd., at 7 PM. Visiting Hours will be from 5 PM to 8 PM. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Aidan Church, St Vincent de Paul Society or Angela Hospice.

Mary Margaret’s life is nicely summed up in the words of our children.

Mom, you are a good Mom! You always did your best to make sure we were all cared for, safe and healthy. You always made us a priority even during times when you may not have felt up to it or we didn’t appreciate enough what you had to offer – mostly through the quiet sacrifices of everyday life, such as providing meals, comfort and guiding us through our days growing up. Your love was consistent, pure and steadfast and you expressed it in numerous ways –mostly in the ordinary things. You successfully raised us to be competent caring adults. You have been a loving Grandma to Jaden and Ryder, giving them hugs whenever possible, reading books, playing cards, and showering affection during bath times and meals. Your love for God and your faith has been strong throughout your entire life, and I am sure Jesus will be smiling when you enter the pearly gates. Not only did you care well for your family, but you cared well for many others, through infant daycare, catechism and many small kindnesses. People always had kind things to say about you. One thing is abundantly clear. We never had to doubt your love for us. That means everything! We are better because of your unwavering love. Thank you for sacrificing for us. Thank you for supporting us through all our activities and for being a model of good faith. Thank you for being my Mom! Thank you for everything! Love, Chris, Anne, Eric and Kathryn.