Mary Kris Wiltse

Mary Kris Wiltse, age 81, passed away on Tuesday, November 21, 2023, at her home in Lupton, MI surrounded by her loving family. She was born on Saturday, June 30, 1942, in Caro, MI, to Percival and Lucille (McDonough) Shagena. Mary, also known as Kris, Krissy, or “Mary Kris-mas”, had a vibrant personality and was beloved by all who knew her.

Kris had a deep connection to her community. She moved up north to the family’s Lupton property fulltime in 2009. Prior to that, she resided in Troy and Waterford, MI.

Kris was a graduate of Caro High School, Class of 1960.

In her professional life, Kris worked as a medical secretary for Blue Cross Blue Shield for several years. However, her true passion was raising her family. She dedicated her time to volunteering at her children's schools, serving as a school nurse, secretary, in the library, and she actively participated in the PTO. She was very proud of the fact that she never missed her children’s high school swim meets over an eight-year period. She also volunteered for the Festival of Trees in downtown Detroit, a charitable event that benefited the Children’s Hospital of Michigan Foundation.

Kris is survived by her loving husband of 58 years, Bob Wiltse, her daughter Gretchen (Gary Weaver) Wiltse, her son Vincent (Heidi) Wiltse, and her cherished grandchildren Austen Kurlander, Parker (Annika Stoldt) Kurlander, Nicholas Wiltse, Abigail Wiltse, and Victoria Wiltse. She is also survived by her siblings Peter (Judy) Shagena, Margaret Jo (Bill) Shubel, Linda (Charles Nolton) Shagena, Pamela (Fred) Clous, and Deborah (Gorden Hedeen) Shagena. She also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her brother-in-law Charles Nolton, and her nephew Steven Shagena.

Kris will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and all those whose lives she touched. Her memory will forever remain in our hearts.

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations be made in Kris’ honor to either St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Shriners Hospitals for Children.

Cremation has taken place, and no service has been scheduled at this time. A celebration of life will be held early summer of 2024.

Arrangements were handled by Steuernol & McLaren Funeral Home in West Branch, MI www.steuernolmclaren.com.