Mari cherished her family. Mari's life was a celebration of good times and good friends. She went from one adventure to the next. She loved her trips to Frankenmuth - chicken dinners and Christmas shopping. Mari was born on March 19, 1960. She was the fifth in a family of eight children, three boys and five girls. She graduated from Groves High School in Beverly Hills, Michigan, in 1982. Most important to Mari was her family. No one ever left her presence without hearing "I love you." She was the sister of Raymond, Kate, Brian, Nan, Jean, Hugh, and the late Megan. She was a loving aunt of many nieces and nephews. Mari was a great fan of Bette Davis, The Three Stooges, The Waltons, Little House on the Prairie, and General Hospital. Mari collected jackets. She always said it was the best part of a man, but none could measure up to her brothers. Her favorite teacher in elementary school was Mr. Fader, who had dashing good looks - flaming red hair and a mustache on fire. She loved wigs because they came in all colors, styles and lengths, so you could always change the way you looked. She loved going once a week to a local restaurant for burgers or coney island. Mari took piano lessons for over ten years and particularly enjoyed classical music. Mari was a strong force. One who could be reckoned with - with a quick laugh and a twinkle in her eye. She was fun. She will leave a void in the hearts of many. As a twin, she was one side of the coin - you could not have one without the other. She was the family's hero. There were none stronger. Who loves you Mari? We do. The family will receive friends Monday 2-8 p.m. at A.J. Desmond & Sons Funeral Home, 2600 Crooks Rd. (Between Maple and Big Beaver). Scripture Service time is pending. The Funeral Mass will be on Tuesday 10 a.m. at Christ, Our Light! Catholic Church, 3077 Glouchester (West off Coolidge, 2 blocks South of Big Beaver). Visitation at church begins at 9:30 a.m. Rite of Committal at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery in Southfield. Memorial tributes may be made to: Special Olympics Michigan, 1120 E. Campus Drive, Mt. Pleasant, MI 48859.