News Summary
The Novi community is grieving the passing of Mary Jo Paler at age 88. A dedicated nurse, mother, and artist, her commitment to family and the arts has left an enduring legacy. Mary Jo’s joyful spirit was evident in her many civic contributions, particularly through music. Funeral arrangements are being held on June 22 and 23, 2025, with memorial contributions requested to honor her love for community health and preservation.
Novi, Michigan – The community is mourning the death of Mary Jo Paler, who peacefully passed away at the age of 88 on June 18, 2025. Known for her dedication to family, service, and the arts, Mary Jo leaves behind a legacy of love and compassion.
Born on December 18, 1936, in Detroit, Michigan, Mary Jo was the daughter of the late Mary (Paver) and Joseph Wasilewski. She devoted much of her life to caring for others, a vocation that began when she graduated from the Wayne State University School of Nursing.
Mary Jo was married for 64 years to her beloved husband, Dr. Ronald Paler. Together, they raised three children: Dr. Ronald (Michael) Paler in Scottsdale, AZ, Catherine (Jorge) Paler-Amaya in Tampa, FL, and Anne (Gene) Darnell in Ann Arbor, MI. She took immense pride in her roles as a mother and grandmother, cherishing her grandchildren, Duncan, Rebecca, and Nicolas.
Civic Contributions and Artistic Engagement
Throughout her life, Mary Jo was actively involved in her community. She was passionate about the arts, singing with groups like the Livingston County Chorale and the Livonia Civic Chorus. Her commitment to music also led her to be a long-time member of the St. Patrick Catholic Church Choir, where she found joy in worship and fellowship.
Visitation and Funeral Arrangements
The family will hold a visitation on Sunday, June 22, 2025, from 2:00 to 6:00 p.m. at The O’Brien/Sullivan Funeral Home in Novi, MI. A Scripture service and a time for sharing memories will start at 5:00 p.m. The following day, on Monday, June 23, 2025, a Funeral Liturgy is scheduled to take place at 10:30 a.m. at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Brighton, MI, with an hour of visitation before the service commencing at 9:30 a.m. After the Funeral Liturgy, Mary Jo will be interred at Holy Sepulchre Catholic Cemetery in Southfield, MI.
Memorial Contributions
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the American Heart Association or the Huron River Watershed Council, organizations that reflect her caring spirit and dedication to community health and preservation.
Legacy of Love
Mary Jo Paler will be remembered for her warmth, kindness, and unwavering love towards all who knew her. Her contributions to her community and the arts, as well as her steadfast support for her family, have left an indelible mark on those who had the privilege of knowing her. The obituary announcing her passing was published in the Livingston Daily Press and Argus on June 19, 2025.
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Additional Resources
- Legacy: Mary Jo Paler Obituary
- Wikipedia: Obituary
- Dignity Memorial: Doug Patton Obituary
- Google Search: Mary Jo Paler
- The Oakland Press: James Clark Rimbold Obituary
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Obituary
- Davenport Family: Melissa Newmark Obituary
- Google News: Mary Jo Paler
