Mary Lois Bidwell

Mary Lois Bidwell passed away peacefully at the age of 88 on December 1, 2025, at her home in Pinckney, Michigan. She was born on October 13, 1937, in Inkster, Michigan to the late Doris and Eva Foley.

Mary is remembered as a classic, timeless beauty. Her high cheekbones, warm smile and perfectly styled hair caught many eyes, including Ford Motor Company where she took her first real job as a front desk receptionist at their headquarters. She was often chosen to be the glamorous model who accompanied vehicles in promotional photo shoots. Of course, she also caught the eye of Douglas James Bidwell, her devoted husband of 67 years who passed away only a few short months ago.

Doug and Mary were inseparable from the day they met in the parking lot of Bray's Hamburgers in Wayne, Michigan, in 1956. After losing her sweetheart, it was clear that Mary missed him deeply and longed to be with him again. We find comfort in knowing they are now reunited in Heaven.

Mary will always be remembered for her genuine warmth and love for people. She never followed the advice of "Don't talk to strangers!" because she simply never met one. She had a gift for conversation and considered everyone a friend. Mary also cherished nature and could sit for hours watching and feeding the birds, squirrels and deer from her back deck.

In addition to being a devoted wife, Mary was a loving mother to Lori (Michael) Turner, Douglas B. Bidwell, and Bonnie (Russ) Burgei and a doting "Gammy" to her grandchildren: Jenny (Brandon) Mann, Sam Carano, Tyler (Jona) Hanson, and Kelsey Hanson. She was also blessed later in life with several bonus grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Mary retired from the Wayne-Westland school district after more than 30 years of service as a secretary. In retirement, Doug and Mary became "snowbirds" traveling by RV and spending winters in Mississippi and Alabama. They enjoyed walking the beaches, trying their luck at the casinos, and indulging in all-you-can-eat buffets, especially the crab legs. Mary also loved a good dirty martini with extra olives!

Summers back home in Milan, Michigan, were often spent cruising in their beloved 1970 Buick Skylark, attending car shows and enjoying friendships through the Backstreet Cruizers Car Club.

Mary was the loving sister to the late Marvin (Marge) Foley, George (Aline) Denison, Bud Foley and the late Bev (Foster) Burke. She adored her siblings and treasured the lifelong memories they created together.

In lieu of services, the family encourages friends to honor Mary through donations to Residential Hospice Foundation or a charity of your choice. A private burial will be held at Marble Park Cemetery in Milan, Michigan.