Mary Rackel

Mary Lou Rackel, age 75 years, of Millington, died on Friday, December 14, 2007 at St. Marys of Michigan in Saginaw. The former Mary Lou Downing was born on May 18, 1932 in Caro to the late Harry and Gladys (Foster) Downing. She married Steve Dusute on February 16, 1951 in Fremont, Ohio, and he preceded her in death on January 23, 1984. She then married Robert Rackel on June 22, 1996 and he survives her. Throughout her life she was a homemaker and loving mother and grandmother. Mary Lou was an active member of the Millington American Legion Post #164 Ladies Auxiliary for 25 years. She was also a member of the Vassar Eagles Aerie #2380. Mary Lou was a gifted artist and craftsperson along with enjoying her gardens. In addition to her husband, she is survived by her children, Patrick (Michele) Dusute of Caro, Michael (Pam) Dusute of Millington, Steve Dusute, Jr. of Reese, Timothy (Cathy) Dusute of Henderson, Nevada, Brian (Dianne) Dusute of Caro and Krista (Tom) Anthony of Vassar; her step-children, Wendy Bennett of Burton, Dawn Rackel of Geneseeville and Bobbie (Mike) Pletcher of Millington; eighteen grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren; one sister, Eleanor (Don) Graham of Brooksville, Florida; a sister-in-law, Georgia Downing of Clio; as well as several nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents and first husband, she was preceded in death by three siblings, Allen Downing, Joyce (Theron) Adlam, Raymond (Norma) Downing; and one granddaughter, Janel Dusute. A memorial service will be held at the Collon Funeral Home on Thursday, December 20, 2007 with Chris Taylor facilitating. Visitation will be at the Collon Funeral Home on Thursday from 10:00 a.m. until time of service at 11:00 a.m. In accordance with Mary Lous wishes, cremation has taken place. Burial will be at Indianfields Township Cemetery. Memorials may be made to the charity of donors choice.