Mary Ann Talsma, 86, of Ludington, passed away Wednesday, December 25, 2024, at home.  She was born August 16, 1938, in Ludington, the daughter of Frank and Rose (Ptaszenski) Wojtaszak.

Maryann worked as a school aide at both Pere Marquette and Foster Elementary Schools for many years.  In her spare time Maryann enjoyed going for rides, especially fall color tour rides and trips to the casino/bingo, including Las Vegas.  Maryann also was an accomplished bowler and avid Detroit Tigers and Detroit Lions fan.

Maryann always looked forward to spring when she was able to enjoy the hydrangeas, azaleas, lilacs, irises and many other flowers.

A proud American, Maryann enjoyed traveling throughout the United States and truly loved the Red, White and Blue!

Most of all, Maryann loved spending time with family and friends, and hunting for deer and snapping turtles with her children.

Maryann is survived by: her significant other, Bob Knab; her son, William Dale (Sheri) Forbes; her daughter-in-law, Vicky Forbes-Parmalee; her step-son, Thys (Stacey) Talsma Jr.; her step-daughter, Trena (John) McClellan; several grandchildren including Ashley Forbes who was instrumental during the last year helping Bob Knab provide care for Maryann; and several great-grandchildren.

Maryann was preceded in death by: her first husband, Richard Dale Forbes; her second husband, Thys Talsma Sr.; significant other, Clyde Lempke; her sons, Richard Dale Forbes Jr. and Timothy Joseph Forbes; her daughter, Lori Ann Forbes; her brothers, Larry Wojtaszak, Raymond Watt, Donald Watt and Richard Wojtaszak; and her sisters, Dorothy Patterson and Connie Magnusen.

A celebration of Maryann's life will be held in the spring.

Beacon Cremation & Funeral Service, Pere Marquette Chapel, is in charge of arrangements.

www.beaconfh.com