Emma McCleese

Emma "Jeannie" McCleese, 66, of Bellaire, passed away on August 18, 2016 at her home. Jeannie was born on November 7, 1949, in Echo Township, MI, the daughter of Ira and Cleo (Everett) Higbee. Jeannie was a strong living, inspirational person who loved her family more than anything. She loved nature, mushroom hunting, listening to music, dancing, arts and crafts, playing games with her grandchildren as well as watching crime movies and love stories. Jeannie was a resident of Bellaire for many years and was employed by Meadow Brook for over 30 years. She is survived by three children, Mike McCleese of Bellaire, John (Jamie) McCleese of Mancelona, Linda (Andy) Colvin of Kalkaska, a brother Charles (Jeannie) Carver of Manistee, 11 grandchildren, Bryan, Michael, Jordan, Jacob, Josiah, Zach, Johnny, Alyssa, Sophie, Kaiden, Emma, a great-grandson Gunner, a sister-in-law, Nancy Higbee, three brothers-in-law, Guy Colantuono of CA, John LaDere of East Jordan, Larry Smith of Bellaire, and many nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, five sisters, Patricia Colantuono, Shirley Smith, Annie LaDere, Sharon Freeman, Nelda Ries and two brothers, Richard Higbee and Ernie Higbee. Memorial services will take place on Saturday, August 27, 12 noon at the Bellaire Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes. David Tucker will officiate. The family will receive friends from 10:00 a.m. until the time of services Saturday at the funeral home. Jeannie's wish was that all who attend the ceremony please dress in casual clothing. Interment will be private in Southern Cemetery, Central Lake Township. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Meadow Brook Medical Care Facility "Resident Fund". Please sign her online guestbook at www.mortensenfuneralhomes.com.