Mary Waller LaPointe

Mary DeTar Waller LaPointe, born June 22, 1959 in Ann Arbor to David & Mary Louise (Mar) DeTar, died peacefully at home surrounded by her adoring family on August 15, 2025.

Mary attended most of her schooling in Ann Arbor, MI and moved “up north” in her late teens where she developed close bonds with her cousins Tracy Dadeo (Rick), Mark Morse (M’Lissa) and Jennifer Parr (Jim).

Among her many adventures, she worked at the Brownwood Farmhouse Restaurant and also The Rowe Inn, where she mesmerized her customers with her sense of humor and gift of story telling.

Mary was a vital part of Brownwood Acres helping in every aspect of the Gift Shops. At Brownwood Acres - FruitFast she played a pivotal role. Mary was a tireless worker, she inspired everyone to give their very best! Customers would call and ask for her by name, finding comfort in her voice and personal care.

A true matriarch, Mary cherished her close-knit family and wide circle of friends across Michigan and beyond. She found joy in moments spent at Torch Lake, at her mother's farm, sunsets at Barnes Park, golf cart adventures, hunting for morels and in the company of those she loved. Her laughter filled many a room with joy and happiness and her ability to always look for the good in life brought light to others. She shared an incredible bond with her grandchildren and spent most of her free time in their company.

Mary had an open-door policy that welcomed everyone. She consistently fed, clothed and provided shelter to those in need. Throughout her life, Mary stood as a mirror of God's acceptance and love, embodying humility, loyalty and generosity with her time and energy.

Mary's strength was particularly evident in her final days as she valiantly battled cancer, displaying remarkable courage until her last moments. Her love and support remained unwavering, as she shared solid advice during dark times, helping those around her find comfort in her presence.

Mary was preceded in death by her beloved son, Jason Snarey; her parents, Mary Lou DeTar & David S. DeTar; her mother-in-law, Virginia Lee LaPointe; two sisters-in-law, Rosella Tomassi and Shannon LaPointe; and three brothers-in-law, Ronnie Sorenson, Michael LaPointe, and Thomas LaPointe.

She is survived by her beloved husband, Charles A. LaPointe, her children, Brittany Waller, Landon (Allie) Waller and grandson Lochland Waller. Additionally, Mary is survived by her combined family, Tara DenHerder, Danielle (Ryan) LaPointe, Luke LaPointe, as well as her grandchildren Jacob Sturgeon, Jonah, Charlie, and Violet DenHerder. Her siblings, Stephen (Dana) DeTar, John (Marilia) DeTar, Ann (Michael) Green, and David DeTar, her Aunt Linda Schwartz, Uncle Richard Schwartz, father-in-law Henry LaPointe and many nieces, nephews and cousins. They will endeavor to carry forward her legacy of love and generosity.

Mary was a beacon of love, compassion and strength throughout her life. She was a role model & champion for those in need. Mary will forever be remembered for her spirit of acceptance, love and relentless kindness that will forever inspire those she leaves behind.

Mary’s dream for a small chapel built on the Brownwood Farm is becoming a reality. The Chapel of Marys, named after her great-grandmother Marie Elizabeth, her grandmother Mary Louise, her mother Mar and herself, will be a welcome haven to all.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, September 18, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the First Congregation Church in Central Lake.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be sent to the First Congregational Church Youth Mission Trip, PO Box 326, Central Lake, MI 49622.

 Arrangements are in the care of the Central Lake Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes. Please sign her guestbook and share a memory here.