Mary Ann Kitchen

MARY ANN KITCHEN of Clarkston, formerly of Waterford and Owosso, Michigan, passed away on December 12, 2024 at 92 years of age. She was born on December 29, 1931, in Racine, Wisconsin. Loving wife of Edward; dear sister of Robert (Jackie) Senkmajer, Diane (the late James) Grenke, and Donald Senkmajer; dear aunt of Bobby, Karen, Erick, Dawn, Pam, Jimmy, Denise, and Joe; great and great-great aunt to many nieces and nephews.

Mary Ann’s life was a testament to the power of education, creativity, and compassion. An extraordinary music teacher, she dedicated her teaching career with Rochester Community Schools to fostering a welcoming, inspiring space where students could discover and develop their musical talents. Whether in Concert Choir, Chamber Choir, Girl's Glee, Boy's Glee, or Music Theory Classes, Mary Ann recognized the unique potential in each of her students, generously offering her time and support to help them achieve their personal best. In addition to her full-time classroom responsibilities, she spent countless winter evenings rehearsing for the spring musical productions she directed, sharing her passion for music with her students at every level.

Mary Ann's talents extended beyond teaching; she was an accomplished artist who even designed the program covers for the musical and choral productions. Her commitment to her students was matched only by her kindness, love, and belief that each one of her students could shine. Mary Ann was proud to have had the opportunity to touch the lives of so many students. She was grateful to be able to share with them her time, attention, and encouragement -- the best gifts any of us have to give.

She was an accomplished pianist with her own baby grand piano in her home. After retirement, she and Edward moved to Owosso where they were active members at St. Paul Catholic Church, where again, Mary Ann excelled in the church’s music ministry. She was adored by her family and will be dearly missed. A funeral mass will be held Thursday, December 19, 2024 at 10 AM at Our Lady of the Lakes Catholic Church, 5481 Dixie Hwy, Waterford. In state Thursday at church from 9:30 AM until mass. Burial at a later date at St. Paul Cemetery, Owosso. Arrangements entrusted to  COATS FUNERAL HOME-WATERFORD. 

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