Maria Rife Timmerman, of Clarkston, passed away at home on January 5, 2023 at the age of 75.
Wife of William Warren for 48 years.
Mother of Erick Timmerman and Lauren Timmerman, husband Richard Mowen.
Preceded in death by her parents Eugene and Anna Adriana Rife and brother Michael.
Originally born in Naples Italy, during the war, Maria came over on the USS Constitution with her mother Anna Adriana De Felice, and her father Eugene Wilbure Rife, who was deployed to Naples as a former farmer in the North Dakota countryside. Once released from duty, they went back to the states, with baby Maria. Her mother had never seen anything more than the city lights of Naples. It was a change for her mother.
Maria graduated from Waterford Township High School. She earned a Bachelor’s degree from Oakland University and a Master’s degree in Art History from Wayne State University. Maria retired from Clarkston Schools as a paraprofessional educator. She was a talented artist, especially painting and stained glass, along with film and many other artistic talents.
She loved cruising down Woodward with her sheepdog Bruce. Watching the wildlife at the cabin she built with her husband, the turning Michigan leaves. The lake house she raised her family in with buzzing humming birds. Meeting the man of her dreams and establishing a family. She loved hearing about her son’s adventures in Seattle, and visiting her daughter to explore art museums in Chicago. Her children may have been far away, but she loved spending time with her husband and dear friends.
She sends her love to sister in-law Lorna, nieces and nephews Nick, Nathaniel, Julie, and Dan.
Her candor, enthusiasm, and love for all of us, family, and friends will truly be missed.
Friends may visit Lewis E. Wint & Son Funeral Home, Clarkston on Wednesday from 5-8 p.m. Funeral service is Thursday 11 a.m. at the funeral home followed by interment at Great Lakes National Cemetery, Holly at 1 p.m.
Online guestbook wintfuneralhome.com.