Mary Elizabeth Holtschneider

Mary E. Holtschneider, born June 20, 1937, in Detroit, Michigan, died July 17, 2025, in Novi, Michigan at the age of 88. Along with her sister Shirley (Martin) Pastir, Mary was raised by parents Earl and Phyllis Martin to value family and faith. Known for her independent attitude, Mary was a loving wife, an active volunteer and a great mother. After attending Mercy High School and the University of Detroit-Mercy, Mary married Henry Holtschneider in 1961. Mary and Henry went on to have eight children, seven grandchildren and two great grandchildren. She created a warm home, filled with art and laughter, and she raised her family to support each other as well as those less fortunate in the world around them. Mary's boundless love of family was only surpassed by the depth of her faith. She was an active member of the Catholic church throughout her life, including being a founding member of St. James parish in Novi, Michigan. For many years, Mary taught catechism and was an active volunteer for a multitude of organizations including Our Lady of Providence and Angel's Place. Mary is survived by her sister Shirley, step-sister Lorraine (Dave) Scully, her children Rev. Dennis Holtschneider, Joe (Elaine) Holtschneider, Donna Holtschneider, Peggy Holtschneider, Karen Hampton, John (Kathleen) Holtschneider, Casey Holtschneider, her grandchildren Eric (Claire) Zwierzchowski, Scott Zwierzchowski, Cassidy Hampton, Stephanie Hampton, Sheila Holtschneider, Eric Holtschneider, Jay Holtschneider and her great grandchildren Sophie Zwierzchowski and Theodore Henry Zwierzchowski. She was predeceased by Henry, her daughter Janet Holtschneider, and her son-in-law Howard Hampton. Instate Saturday, July 19, 2025, at St. James Catholic Church, 46325 West 10 Mile Road, Novi from 9:30 AM until time of funeral liturgy 10:00 AM. Interment will take place at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, Southfield. Memorial contributions can be made to the Lyte Collective, an organization founded by Mary's daughter Casey Holtschneider to provide resources to Chicago youth dealing with poverty and homelessness. Donation information can be found at www.lytecollective.org/donate/