Mary Arlene Bohnett

Mary Arlene Bohnett, age 89 of East Lansing, formerly of Laingsburg passed away peacefully, Thursday, March 13, 2025. A funeral service to honor and celebrate her life will be held at 12:00 PM on Tuesday, March 18, 2025 at Watkins Brothers Funeral Homes, 203 East First North St., Laingsburg, MI 48848. The family will receive friends beginning at 11:00 AM until the time of service. Pastor Larry Smith will officiate. Interment immediately following at Laingsburg Cemetery.
Born on November 22, 1935, in the quaint town of Laingsburg, Mary grew up in the loving arms of her parents, Levi "Wesley" and Arlene Fralick. Her childhood was filled with the laughter and camaraderie of her siblings, Josette "Sue" and Wesley "Dennis," with whom she shared an unbreakable bond.
Mary's formative years in Laingsburg saw her blossom into a bright young woman, and it was there at Laingsburg High School where she laid the foundations for a life marked by service and kindness. The autumn leaves bore witness to her union with the love of her life, Mr. Burton Shurm Bohnett, on September 26, 1953, at the Congregational Church in Laingsburg. Their marriage was a beautiful testament to enduring love and partnership, and together they raised three wonderful children: Daniel, Duane, and Robin, who were the center of Mary's world.
Professionally, Mary dedicated many years to serving her community as a mail carrier for the United States Postal Service. Her commitment to others extended beyond her work as she volunteered her time and energy at McLaren Hospital, ensuring that medications reached those in need with warmth and efficiency. Mary's spirit of giving also shone through her involvement with the Order of the Eastern Stars, where she led with compassion as a past county President.
Mary's creative heart found joy in crafting mittens for school-age children with the Shiawassee Kings Daughters and engaging in various other charitable works. Her hands were rarely idle, weaving warmth not only through yarn but also through the connections she fostered with every creation.
A garden filled with colorful blooms and the sweet songs of birds marked the arrival of spring each year for Mary. Alongside Burton, she found delight in square dancing and the camaraderie of other couples along with this activity, a hobby that brought them both many cherished friendships.
Above all, Mary's heart belonged to her family. Her grandchildren and great-grandchildren were the source of her deepest joy, and she cherished every moment spent with them.
Mary and Burton's shared love of travel took them on many adventures, each journey an opportunity to explore and create new memories together until his passing in June of 2016.
Described by those who knew her as faith-filled and creative, Mary's legacy is one of unwavering love and selfless service. She is lovingly survived by her daughter, Robin Ann (Steven) Wiswasser; 7 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; brother, Wesley "Dennis" Fralick; and brother-in-law, Jerry (Roberta) Bohnett; many nieces and nephews and cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Burton; sons, Daniel Lee Bohnett and Duane Alan Bohnett; and sister, Josette "Sue" Arnold.
Memorials are suggested to Laingsburg Public Schools or to the American Heart Association.
The family is being served by Watkins Brothers Funeral Homes, Laingsburg Chapel where online condolences and memories may be shared.