May 27, 1915 — Jan. 23, 2015

Mary Elizabeth Henkel, 99, of Cassopolis, died peacefully Friday, January 23, 2015 in the presence of her family in Cass County Medical Care Facility in Cassopolis.

She was born May 27, 1915 in Greensburg, Pennsylvania to Ray and Louise (Sindorf) Bashioum. She married Charles Kenneth Henkel August 5, 1935 in Greensburg. He preceded her in death in 1978. She was also preceded by her parents, one grandson, Jeffrey Charles Henkel; and one brother, Raymond Bashioum.

Mary loved spending her time gardening, sewing, cooking and reading. She was a devoted Christian who was active in the church her whole life and enjoyed many Bible studies throughout her years.

Mary was interested in politics and was a member of the National Federation of Republican Women in both the Greensburg, Pennsylvania and Cassopolis, Michigan chapters. She relocated to Michigan in her seventies, and appreciated and treasured her past and newly formed friendships until her death. She was so grateful that she had so many close friends who took such an active part in her life.

“Nanny” enjoyed living near family and was a devoted mother, grandmother and mother in law. She will be remembered for her youthful disposition, gentle spirit, beautiful smile and bright twinkling blue eyes.

Mary will also be remembered for her wonderful meals, inspiring conversations and thoughtfulness. She took time for others and was open minded and adapted well to the many challenging circumstances in her lifetime.

Overall, Mary maintained forgiveness, hopefulness, cheerfulness and a positive mental attitude and generally felt as if she had had a very good life. Her conversations and presence will be greatly missed by all who knew her. She really was a joy and touched so many lives.

Mary will be greatly missed by family and friends. She is survived by one son, Charles “Chuck” (Janet) Henkel of South Bend, one granddaughter, Leah (Robert) McChesney of South Bend; one great grandson, Sebastian McChesney; one sister in law, Ruth Bashioum; and one niece, Joann Allen, both of Laguna Hills, California.

Mrs. Henkel was laid to rest beside her late husband, Charles, in Westmoreland County Memorial Park near Greensburg, Pennsylvania.

The family prefers memorial contributions be made in Mary’s name to Cass Fellowship Bible Church, 64016 M-62, Cassopolis, Michigan 49031.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Connelly Chapel Wagner Family Funerals, Cassopolis. Please share a memory or a message online: wagnercares.com.