Jean Ellen Waddell's Obituary
Big Rapids-Jean Ellen Waddell, 90, of Big Rapids passed away on Wednesday, January 29, 2014. Jean was born in Big Rapids, July 9, 1923, the daughter of Francis and Mary (Morlan) MacDonald. She attended St. Mary School, Big Rapids High School, Ferris Institute and Ferris State College. Jean was employed by Ferris State for 26 years as an executive secretary. She also served as Secretary of the Alumni Association for several years. Jean married David Waddell in 1944. They had eight children; David of Cancun, Mexico; Stephen (Deborah) of Reed City; Shawn (Deborah) of Big Rapids; Susan Waddell of Ada; Diane (Lee) Schuchaskie of Barryton; Samantha (Jeffrey) Nelson of Big Rapids; and Sally Waddell of Big Rapids. She is also survived by 10 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren. Jean also leaves a special sister-in-law, Martha MacDonald of Port Angeles, Washington and former daughter-in-law, Norma of St. Clair Shores. She was preceded in death by her husband, parents, and a daughter, Deborah. Long interested in politics, Jean served as the first female mayor of Big Rapids, two terms on the Big Rapids City Commission, and several local boards. She was also a lifelong member of St. Mary Catholic Church in Big Rapids. A Mass of Christian Burial will take place at St. Mary Catholic Church in Big Rapids at 11:00 a.m., Tuesday, February 4, 2014 at St. Mary Catholic Church with Father Chuck Schwartz celebrant. Visitation will take place on Monday, February 3, 2014 at the Mohnke Funeral Home in Big Rapids from 3:00-6:00 p.m., with Rosary at 5:30 p.m. A burial at Mt. Carmel Cemetery will take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the St. Vincent de Paul Society.
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