Mara Lynne Kind

It is with heavy hearts that we acknowledge the passing of Mara Kind, 64, of Monroe, North Carolina, after a short battle with cancer. A stoic and generous woman who personified her last name, Mara was a phenomenal sister and loving wife.

Mara, known as Cricket by friends and family, was born on December 23, 1961 and raised in and around Hazel Park, Michigan. Mara graduated in 1980 from Hazel Park High School and played varsity softball during her time there. Mara also studied business at Davenport University, previously known as Detroit College of Business in Warren, Michigan.

Mara enjoyed a fulfilling and eclectic career that took her into the financial services (Olde Discount), tax preparation (H&R Block), transportation (TSA) and food (Carvel) industries. She was known for helping to mentor and launch the careers of many coworkers throughout her life. In all things, Mara gave fully to those she loved.

Mara joined her beloved wife, Barbara Ranney, in Baltimore, Maryland for several years before the pair built a home in Monroe, North Carolina. Together, Mara and Barb enjoyed the last 11 years in North Carolina with their many pets, planning and growing a garden and spending time with friends. Their marriage was one of devoted faithfulness, shared interests and unapologetic acceptance.

Mara was preceded in death by her parents, Ronald and Martha Kind, her sister Marty Derkson and her nephew, David Gum. She is survived by her wife, Barbara Ranney; siblings, Kathleen Walters, Kevin Kind and Marnie Kenward as well as nieces Michelle Kind, Nicole Konjevod, Jessica Walters, Katie Walters, Kristin Kind, Kimberly Kind and Keri Kind and nephew Nathen Riling; many great nieces and a great nephew and great-great nieces and nephews. All her loved ones will remember her as the quintessential big sister. She will be greatly missed.

Mara will be laid to rest with her mother in Roseland Park Cemetery in Berkley, Michigan.