Mary Ellen Gerhard (Huber)

Mary Ellen Gerhard (Rowley-Huber), age 80, of Kentwood, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, September 5, 2019, after a brief illness and is now home with her Lord and Savior.  She was preceded in death by parents, James and Eulalia Rowley; brother, Michael John Rowley; sister, Eileen Patricia Mahan.  Mary Ellen will be lovingly remembered by her children, Matthew Huber, Mark and Kathy Huber, Holly and Dominique Ratinaud, Laura and Bryan Koster; grandchildren, Melissa and Jim Casarez, Emily and Matt Karas, Sarah Huber, Michael and Brianne Huber, Kelly and Brad Nowak, Nicholas, Jeremy and Christina Ratinaud, Ben and Courtney Koster, Adam Koster, Olivia Koster, Grace Koster; great-grandchildren, Brianna, Richard, and Savannah Casarez, Ariana and James Huber, Carson, Brynn, and Harper Nowak, with three more great-grandchildren on the way; many nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends. Mary Ellen’s family was both her purpose and her passion in life. Being a mother and grandma was the most important role in her life and God gave her special talents and gifts to fulfill her calling. She treasured the time spent with her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren and loved to capture those special moments with her camera. She will be remembered for her kindness which she poured out abundantly on her family, friends and even those she had never met in person. Those who knew and loved her will miss the smile on her face, the touch of her hands, the warmth of her hugs, the encouragement and comfort of her words, and the love she shared so generously. Although she will be forever missed, she leaves behind a priceless collection of memories that her loved ones will always cherish.   A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, September 13, 2019, 11 am at St. Mary Magdalene Church, 1253 52nd St. SE, Kentwood, 49508 with Fr. Peter Vu presiding.  Interment Resurrection Cemetery.  Relatives and friends may meet the family on Thursday from 4:30 to 8 pm at Matthysse-Kuiper-DeGraaf Funeral Home (Grandville) 4145 Chicago Dr. SW, and from 10 to 11 am Friday at the church. A Vigil Service will be held 8 pm following the visitation on Thursday. In lieu of flowers, those who wish may make memorial contributions to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or to Make a Wish Foundation.