Mary Jean Flees

Mary Jean Flees, 103, of Traverse City, a devout Christian, beloved mother and grandmother passed away Tuesday, June 10, 2025, at French Manor Terra Assisted Living, surrounded with her family. She was born on December 2, 1921, in Leland, Michigan, the daughter of Frank and Elizabeth (Couturier) Zeits.

She graduated from St. Mary’s Catholic Schools, Lake Leelanau. Mary Jean then married Edward Joseph Flees on August 3, 1940. They were married for 72 years and had four children, two girls and two boys.

Mary Jean retired from the Traverse City State Hospital as a Licensed Psychiatric Nurse after 25 years of service. She then became a full-time housewife and homemaker.

She was a devoted Christian, a member of St. Francis Catholic Church in Traverse City. She was faithful to the Rosary and cherished her faith and the church.

Mary Jean was a devoted Detroit Tigers Fan, took special joy in watching every game. She enjoyed playing Euchre, and enjoyed music, especially Edwards’s polka music, knitting, crocheting and going to the casino.

Mary Jean is survived by her children, Elaine (Richard Van Hill) Williams, Marilyn (Victor Hlavka d) Domine and Michael (Rebecca) Flees; daughter-in-law, Sue Flees;

8 grandchildren, Timothy (Cameo) Williams, John (Justina) Hlavka, Jeffery (Sandra) Hlavka, Ann (Clifford) Smith, Earl Jay Flees, Tony Rudelic, Matthew (James) Flees, Benjamin (Lisa) Flees; and 17 greatgrandchildren, Cassie, Lexie, Callie, Gabe, Joey, Jacob, Nathan, Alyssa, Isaac, Tori, Kortney, Aidan, Christopher, Jaena, Lanora, Keadence and Hannah.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Frank and Elizabeth; husband, Edward; son, Earl Flees; son-in-law, Victor Hlavka; and 6 siblings.

The Family would like to send a heartfelt Thank-you to the Staff at French Manor Terra and Hospice of Michigan, who took wonderful care of her.

Memorial Contributions may be made to Hospice of Michigan, Traverse City.

A gathering with family will start at 10:00 am, Friday, June 27, 2025, at St. Francis Catholic Church. The Rosary will start at 10:35 am with the Mass at 11:00 am. A luncheon will follow and burial will take place at 1:45 pm at Grand Traverse Memorial Gardens, Veterans Dr., Traverse City.

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