Mary Katherine Almus

Mary Katherine Almus, 98, of St. Joseph, MI, formerly of Okemos, MI, passed away on Wednesday, May 16, 2012 at her son’s home. A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Friday May 25, 2012 at St. Bernard Catholic Church in Benton Harbor, MI officiated by Rev. William Jacobs Jr. Burial followed at Alger Cemetery in Alger, MI. Mary was born on June 26, 1913 in Alger to Anthony and Victoria (Janusz) Stoyak. Her father passed away when she was six years old and as the eldest of three children she endured the challenges of growing up on a farm during the Depression. Her experiences established her strength that was tempered with compassion. On October 1, 1937 she married Henry Almus of Alger, who was employed by Michigan Department of Transportation. They relocated to several communities of Michigan before establishing a permanent home in Okemos. As a homemaker and beloved mother of three sons, she took pride in cultivating a garden of fresh produce, canning, cooking and baking. Two of her specialties were fruit pies and chocolate chip cookies, both high on the request list of her family and friends. Her lovely flower garden was a welcome sight and evidence of her green thumb. Mary was also gifted in handiwork and the art of quilting, knitting and crocheting. Such a generous, kind-hearted lady, she showered many with her handmade gifts from the heart. She will always be remembered for her compassionate love and giving spirit toward others and animals as well. Mary’s strong faith was so important to her that she prayed the rosary daily, thinking of others’ needs as another example of reflecting Christ’s love. She trusted our Lord to sustain her during the difficult times and shared with Him the happiness of the good times. He blessed her with the graces needed to care for her dear husband, afflicted with Alzheimer’s in their home for 19 years and for her own medical challenges of the past two and one half years. Her family expresses deep gratitude to Hospice at Home of St. Joseph and all her caregivers, especially her friend Michelle, who kept her spirits lifted and treated her with such loving care. They also appreciate Father Bill Jacobs for treating her like family and for the kindness and friendship he demonstrated. Friends wishing to make a memorial donation may do so to: Hospice at Home, Animal Aid, the Humane Society of Southwest Michigan, or St. Jude’s Hospital. Her children Patrick (Nancy) Almus of St. Joseph, Thomas (Bonnie) Almus of Seneca, South Carolina and Fred (Sarah) Almus of Rocky Mount, North Carolina, seven grandchildren and three great-grandchildren survive her. Her husband and brothers John and Joseph Stoyak preceded Mary in death.