Mary Ann Lowe

Mary Ann Lowe, 94, of Niles, died peacefully Friday, Septermber 18, 2026 in her home, surrounded by her children, after battling a long illness.

Her life began July 1, 1932, in Niles, Michigan, one of four children born to Russell and Fern Shoemaker. She married Dale Lowe July 24, 1955 in Niles, Michigan. 

Mary and Dale lived their lives on Barron Lake for over seventy years. Mary smiled her way through life and loved her family and friends very much. She volunteered/worked at Howard/Ellis Elementary for over forty years and wore many hats during those years in the school system; becoming a Para-professional. She worked in various class rooms, including special needs, the library, office, a playground aide and what her family nicknamed her, the 'mean ole lunch lady'.  Later in life, Mary, also known as "the mad hatter," knitted well over two thousand hats for children that were donated to various schools and charities. Mary was a member of Hope Community Church, where she volunteered in Awana teaching children about the God she loved so much. She traveled the country with Dale, loved going on car rides to see Lake Michigan, and spent many months thoughout her later years in California, spending time with her grandson and greatgrandchildren, who brought joy to her heart.

Mary will be greatly missed by family and friends.  She is survived by three daughters, Christine (Brian) Becker, Kimberley Neart, Karen Lowe; one son, Larry Lowe; one grandson, Nicholas (Lisa) Becker; twin great grandchildren, Mason Becker, Mackenzie Becker; one brother, Robert (Kay) Shoemaker; and one brother-in-law, Doyle Fox.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved and devoted husband of fifty-eight years, Dale Russell Lowe; twin sister and brother-in- law, Barbara and Jerry York; and her brother and sister-in-law, Russell (Violet) Shoemaker.

Family and friends will gather Thursday, September 24, 2026 in Hope Community Church, 2390 Lake Street, Niles, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Family and friends will again gather for a funeral service Friday, September 25, 2026 at 1:00 p.m.

The family prefers contributions in memory of Mary be made to Hope Community Church, 2390 Lake Street, Niles, Michigan 49120.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Halbritter Wickens Funeral Services, Niles. Please share a memory or message online:halbritterwickens.com.