Obituary of Mary Alice Laderach

Mary Alice Heath was born on August 15, 1936, in Monroe, Michigan. She was one of six children born to the union of Harold Heath and Leonia (Russeau) Heath.

On March 27, 1965, Mary married the love of her life, John Paul “Jack” Laderach and together they were blessed with five children. For more than thirty years, Mary owned and operated JC Enterprises, specializing in the sale and installation of wood burning stoves.

Mary was a devout Christian keeping her faith in her Lord Jesus Christ close to her heart throughout her life. Mary was a lifelong member of Erie Presbyterian Church. She had a heart of gold and cared for others implicitly.  From being a founding member of the Damascus House in Monroe, volunteering at local soups kitchens with her husband, to working the Hotline to God, she dedicated her life to those in need of a hand up.

Mary was a great cook, always making items for her church potlucks, although her most difficult task was keeping her own children out of the dish she had prepared. She also believed in being as healthy as possible and was adamant about her exercise regimen and maintained being fit into her golden years. "Mary took great pride in her outward appearance as well.  She was beautiful woman, a sharp dresser and always looked put together". She felt how one presented themselves to the public was essential and dressing well was important.  A lover of music, Mary took every opportunity to dance.  Mary had a crush on Michael Landon and MacGyver and enjoyed watching the show as much for his ingenuity as for his good looks.

Mary Alice Laderach, age 87 of Monroe, Michigan, passed away peacefully at the Alice Lorraine Care Center on Friday; November 24, 2023. Her passing was preceded by her parents; her husband; two sisters: Delores Lawson and Shirley Richardson; a brother: Charles Heath; a grandson: John-Luke W. Laderach; and a son-in-law: Glenn Peterson.

To cherish her memory, she leaves five children: Tom (Carrie) Laderach, Jeff (Huyen) Laderach, John Mark (Brenda) Laderach, Jo Lynn Laderach, and Marriann Wesley; three sisters: Rose Boudrie, Valerie Bullard, and Sharon Brant, nine grandchildren: Kristina, Aaron, Austin, Alicia, Khadeja, Hayden, Josie, and Danielle; three great-grandchildren: Charlee, Reyna, and Lukey.

Friends may gather from 3:00pm until 7:00pm on Wednesday; November 29, 2023, at Merkle Funeral Service, Erie; 9156 Summit Street, Erie, Michigan 48131 (734) 317-7199. A Celebration of Her Life will be held at 11:00am on Thursday; November 30, 2023, also at Merkle’s with Pastor Danny Slater officiating.  A procession to LaSalle Township Cemetery will immediately follow the service.

For those desiring, memorial contributions are suggested to Erie Presbyterian Church.  Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort or share a photo by visiting www.merklefs.com.