Mary Jean Roever

Mary was born May 21, 1939, in Oregon Township, to Martha (Lehman) and George Sponem.   Her parents divorced when she was two, and her step-father, Martin Theesfeld, became a second father to her.   Mary was raised as an only child, but had seven half-siblings, whom she saw when visiting her father.  

After high school, Mary met Don Roever.  He was the love of her life, and they married on Valentine’s Day in 1958.  Their daughter was born in 1971, and four years later they moved to Green Bay.  Mary worked as a secretary at Proctor & Gamble for 15 years, followed by the Green Bay Area Schools until she retired.  The marriage lasted for almost 62 years, until Don passed on January 16, 2020.

Mary loved animals, and is survived by her cat, Mario.  After retiring, Mary was active on Twitter with her “Anipal” friends.  She spoke in Mario’s voice, sharing the things that happened in his life.  She taught herself how to use Photoshop and had a blog.  Mario had many fans who loved his escapades.   He’s now in retirement, living the good life.

Mary loved to travel, especially the cruises she and Don took with friends.  She liked golf, camping on holiday weekends, and was never far from a good book.  Mary loved music, played the accordion and piano, and sang in the Bethany Church choir.  The church and friends she made there were a significant part of her life.   

Mary is survived by her daughter, Kim McIntosh.  Kim inherited her mother’s stubbornness and love of laughter, but not her love of the accordion.  Mary’s beloved son-in-law, Ken McIntosh, was her favorite child.  He was one of the few people Mary was comfortable with as a chauffeur, and did double-duty as her I.T. guy.  

Mary would want to recognize her special friends in “group” for their decades-long love and support. She would also thank Patty for visiting regularly after Don died.  Mary enjoyed these visits and the laughter they shared.  

Mary’s family wishes to thank the staff at Brewster Village or their exceptional care.  They made sure Mary’s physical and emotional needs were met, even during lock-down due to Covid.  Mary had many positive things to say about this wonderful facility.  

A memorial service will be held at Noon on Saturday, May 21^st at Bethany Church, 1110 Echo Lane in Green Bay. Visitation will be Saturday at the church from 11am until the time of service.

In lieu of memorials, please patronize an independent ice cream shop.  This was Mary’s favorite food, and she would heartily approve.