Marion Shirley (Schultz) Raeth, 99, passed away peacefully on January 23, 2026. She was born September 19, 1926, in Grand Rapids, the daughter of Henry and Hattie (Pierce) Schultz.
Marion was a woman who lived a simple and quiet life. Having spent most of her life in Benona and growing up during the Great Depression, she learned the value of hard work, resilience and perseverance from an early age. Those experiences shaped her into a woman of sweetness, understanding and deep love, though she was also known to carry a sharp tongue when she felt it was deserved.
Above all else, Marion devoted herself to her family. She poured the very best parts of herself into raising her children and caring for those she loved, embracing wholeheartedly the role of wife, mother and grandmother. Alongside being a strong family woman, Marion also kept herself busy through the years with many jobs. She worked numerous farm jobs, at Oceana Canning Company, and in the cafeteria for Shelby Public Schools. Her hands were never idle, and her quiet strength and work ethic were evident in everything she did.
Marion shared 71 years of marriage with her beloved husband before his passing in 2019, a testament to the deep commitment, loyalty and love they built together throughout their lives.
She enjoyed spending her time knitting, often gifting her handmade creations as her own quiet language of love. Marion also loved flowers and cards; from cherished birthday cards to simple everyday greetings, she saved nearly every card she received throughout her life. To her, each one was a reminder of the love, thoughtfulness and connection she shared with those around her.
Marion is survived by her sons, Curt (Linda) Raeth, Mark Raeth and Tim Raeth; grandson, Cody Raeth; great-grandchildren, Mitchell Vandlen, Mason Vandlen, Cooper Royce and Natalie Royce.
Marion was preceded in death by her parents, Henry and Hattie (Pierce) Schultz; beloved husband, John Henry Raeth; brother, Robert Schultz; and granddaughter, Leah Royce.
A graveside service will be held at 1 p.m., May 23, 2026, at the Benona Township Cemetery, 7336 W. Johnson Rd. A luncheon will be held at St. Stephen’s Lutheran Church, 7410 W. Johnson Rd., Shelby, MI 49455, immediately following interment.
Harris Funeral Home, in Shelby, is in charge of arrangements.
