Mary Ann Okas

Mary Ann Okas, 61, of Central Lake, passed away on November 12, 2023. She was born on August 9, 1962, in Rochester, MI, the daughter of Robert and D’Ann (Mulligan) Runk.

   Mary was a free spirit who loved many things: music of all kinds, writing quirky poems, summers in Northern Michigan, time by the lake, a good fireworks display at Harbor Days in Elk Rapids, and the town of Central Lake. Throughout her many moves to California, Tennessee, Grand Rapids, Saginaw, and Florida she always found her way back home to Central Lake. She enjoyed cooking and we can’t forget about her almond chicken, most conversations and texts ended with “I love you more than almond chicken” (ILYMTAC).

   She loved her friends, many of whom are from Central Lake and the surrounding areas, but she made friends wherever she went, she was never afraid to start a conversation with a stranger. Thank you to all those who loved her.

     Most of all she loved her family. She cared deeply for all of us and spent many years of her life caring for the health and wellbeing of her parents, brothers, and sons. She loved hearing stories about her grandchildren and their adventures and was so happy to be their Mimi. She loved her dog Ruckus immensely, who was a perfect match for her personality. 

  Surviving are two sons, Craig (Sarah) McDade of Boston, MA, Justin McDade of Central Lake, 5 grandchildren, Carson, Grace, Adam McDade all of Boston, MA, Devin and Colton Crossman of Central Lake, 3 brothers, Robert Runk of Central Lake, Brian Runk of Daytona, FL, and David Runk of Manton, MI, Aunt Dee Finn of Largo, FL, cousin Maria Lowe of Dunedin, FL, and many beloved extended family and friends across the country.

   She was preceded in death by her parents.

   A Celebration of Life will be held Thursday, November 16, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Central Lake Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes.

   Memorial contributions may be made to the Benderson Family Heart Center, Children’s Hospital, 300 Longwood Ave, Boston, MA, 02115 or to the Blind Commission, 209 W. 1^st St., #102, Gaylord, MI, 49735.

   Arrangements by the Central Lake Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes.

   Online guestbook www.mortensenfuneralhomes.com.