Mary Ann Brethauer (McGarrity)

Beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend passed away on October 4, 2024, at the age of 70 years.

Mary was born on August 18, 1954, in Saginaw, Michigan to the late Thomas A. and Marilyn J. (Hill) McGarrity. She attended Webber Junior High, Saginaw High School, and was a 1972 graduate of Freeland High School. Mary then went on to Delta College to study psychology and ASL. While in junior high, Mary found the love of her life, Robert Brethauer. They married on June 28, 1975, and enjoyed 49 years of marriage. They were one another's everything and were looking forward to taking a big vacation across the East Coast for their 50th Anniversary.

Mary worked many retail jobs over the years but her main job was raising her children and helping with her grandchildren. She was a member of Jefferson Avenue Methodist Church. In her spare time Mary enjoyed a variety of activities including reading, cross stitch, needle work, quilting and baking. Everyone often spoke highly of her cooking skills and said she had the best family recipes. She could cook for an army and hosted many family gatherings at her home. Mary loved to go shopping and hitting the flea market or farmer's market. She really enjoyed finding special knick-knacks.

Surviving are Mary's husband and best friend, Robert A. Brethauer, their children: Robert T. (Amy) Brethauer, Laura J. (Joe) Kraszewski, and Michael S. Brethauer, all of Saginaw; grandchildren: Greyson White, Aubrey Brethauer, Emmy Brethauer, and Hazel Kraszewski. Mary loved her grandchildren and they brought so much joy and happiness to her life.

Also surviving are her brother, Thomas J. (Lori) McGarrity of Saginaw, step-father Kenneth Oswald, brothers-in-law Walter (Linda) Brethauer, Larry (Dawn) Brethauer, and Jim Brethauer, sister-in-law Connie Brethauer-Armstrong, and her best friend Linda Gerken.

Along with her parents, Mary was predeceased by brothers: Robert A. McGarrity and David P. McGarrity; sister-in-law Karen Gibson, and parents-in-law Walter and Nancy Brethauer.

Honoring Mary's wishes cremation has taken place. A memorial service will be held at 3:00 pm on Thursday, October 10, 2024, at W. L. Case and Company Funeral Directors, 4480 Mackinaw Rd, Saginaw, MI 48603. Minister Mark Oswald will officiate.  Friends may visit with the family from 11:00 am until the time of service. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider the American Cancer Society. Please share your condolences and memories with the family at the visitation, service, or online at https://www.casefuneralhome.com.