Mary Perla Obituary
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Mary Lou Perla on February 25,2025, at the age of 77. Mary Lou was born on August 14, 1947, in Lansing, MI. to Paul and Mary (Gebic) Perla. She graduated from Gabriels High School in Lansing and was a long-time member of St. Gerard Catholic Church.
Her generosity knew no bounds. She was not only generous in life, but also in death as an organ donor. Mary Lou was a loving daughter, auntie, and friend and a beautiful soul who would help anyone. Mary Lou worked for the State of Michigan- Dept of Commerce for the Corporations and Securities Bureau for 36 years, retiring in 2002. Being an avid animal lover, she changed careers upon retirement to be a pet sitter and incorporated Affordable Pet Sitters Plus LLC. Mary Lou was the author of a children's book called "A New Home for Pusstopher," which was sold via Amazon. She was also an award-winning animal photographer with several photos being published in The National Geographic. Because of her love of baking, she was especially known for her cookies and famous wacky birthday cake. Gardening and listening to the sounds of her treasured koi pond were two of her favorite pastimes. Children and pets alike adored her.
She is survived by her brother, Paul (Sybil) Perla; nieces, Heather (Andrews) Childers and Jessica (Perla) Dominguez and Jessica's children, Isabella, Juan (JJ) and Amelia Dominguez; nephew, Jon Perla; her closest cousins, Kay and Gail; special friend, Tom Woods and many treasured friends.
Mary Lou is preceded in death by her parents, Paul and Mary Perla and sister, Suzanne Perla.
Visitation will be held at Palmer, Bush & Jensen Family Funeral Homes-Delta Chapel on Thursday, March 20 from 5:00pm-7:00pm with a Rosary being prayed at 7:00pm. The Memorial Mass will be celebrated on Friday, March 21 at 10:30am with Rev. Fr. Mark Martin as celebrant. The family will receive friends 1 hour prior to the Memorial Mass.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Mary Lou's name, to Capital Area Humane Society, 7095 West Grand River Avenue, Lansing, MI 48906.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Mary, please visit our floral store.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Cathy Nichols
March 18, 2025
Dear Paul and Family-I was so sorry to read of Mary Lou's passing. You are all in my thoughts as you go through this difficult time. I have fond memories of the Perlas living back to back with us on Foster and Francis. Sincerely Cathy Nichols
Rosemary Clare Hurlburt
March 4, 2025
I was a friend of Mary Lou in grade school and high school. She was a wonderful and kind person. I am truly sorry to hear of her passing and so very proud of the person she became.
Lois Sparbel
March 4, 2025
My best bud!
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Paul Spata
March 4, 2025
Not only did I attend high school with Mary Lou, but I believe we attended all 8 grades of elementary school at Resurrection together. Although we had no contact since HS graduation (60 years ago), I recognized her name on the obituary list immediately. I am sorry to learn we will not ever reconnect.
Kimberly Cupples
March 3, 2025
MARY LOU AND GO WAY BACK TO THE DAYS OF WORKING AT THE STATE OF MICH. WE RECONNECTED THROUGH FRIENDS YEARS LATER ..AND WE HAVE BEEN GREAT FRIENDS EVER SINCE.. SHE USE TO TELL ME " I'M SO GLAD WERE FRIENDS " MY REPLY WAS ALWAYS " ME TOO " I MISS MY 7 AM PHONE CALLS AND MY DINNER REPORTS . I MISS THIS LOVELY LADY SO MUCH AND I ALWAYS TOLD HER SHE WAS BEAUTIFUL .
Mary Canty
March 2, 2025
I'll always remember my cousin Mary Lou as a happy and laughing teenager. She became an accomplished and kind adult.
KIMBERLY
March 2, 2025
I miss my morning phone calls at 6:45 7:00 a.m. to see how I was doing . MARY lou was one of the kindest people you would ever know .. my words can't express how much she will be missed . I love you Mary Lou .. I k ow God and the Angels are taking great care of you . P.S. this is one of her favorite photos of herself taken around her birthday dinner .
Judy Teegardin
March 2, 2025
Mary Lou, you were so much fun to be around and always had great stories to tell!! I remember our fun shopping expedition and so glad to spend time with you! Take care of those animals in heaven!!
Lois Sparbel
March 2, 2025
Marylou was the most generous person I ever met. She cared deeply about her family and friends and will be greatly missed. I loved her very much.
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