Marey Lesman

Generous, endearing, and a joy to be around, Marey Lesman lived a life rich in family and friends. Marey loved people and could easily hold a conversation with anybody. Her many friends came to enjoy the laughter she inspired with her coarse, sarcastic wit. Always willing to give of her time and talents in service of others, Marey afforded many in the community comfort, security, dignity, and respect. In her heart, everyone was safe and valued. A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, Marey was an inspiration to all who were blessed to know her. Though our days with her were far too few, every moment is a gift we will long treasure.

It seems fitting that a woman of such enthusiasm for life was born in the middle of one of the most highly charged decades in U.S. history. While the Vietnam War and the Civil Rights Movement resulted in volatile protests, the inventions of the Super Ball and Skateboard reminded us of the importance of play. Women’s skirts grew shorter while men’s hair grew longer, and The Beatles’ “Help” album dominated the radio waves. With much hope for the future, John and Anne (Tate) Goudie welcomed their daughter Marey into their hearts and home on March 29, 1967, in Kalamazoo, Michigan.

The second oldest of the five Goudie kids, Marey was the only daughter, and her parents treated her like a princess. As a student at Kalamazoo Central High School, her royal status was elevated when she was voted prom queen by her peers.

One of her first jobs was at Rykse's Restaurant and Bakery, where she made many lifelong friends and eventually met her husband, Jim Lesman. Jim recognized her and later met her at a 5:01 party. Their first official date was to a concert at the State Theater; a mutual friend had given them the tickets. She was attracted to his charm and personality and, though she didn’t particularly like skiing, she agreed to a second date at Timber Ridge. Nine months later, the happy couple married on December 6, 1993.

Marey and Jim settled in Portage, where they were blessed to welcome three children to their family. Justin, Riley, and Brad were Marey’s heart’s delight, and she happily devoted herself to creating a loving and supportive home for them. When the Moose Lodge opened a new facility across the street from their home, a friend invited them for a tour. While exploring the Lodge, Marey recognized the need for some kitchen help and quickly volunteered. Not long after, she was officially hired as their banquet manager.

Gifted with a call to serve others, Marey was grateful that Jim’s work afforded her many opportunities to answer that call. In addition to her work at the Moose Lodge, she also volunteered for a time at the Portage United Methodist Church’s daycare. All the daycare kids’ favorite, she was soon hired on full-time. While working at the daycare, she would invite her kids and others from the nearby high school for lunch. Later in life, she volunteered for Twelve Baskets Food Pantry, once again bringing passion and skill to serving those in need.

In their leisure time, Marey and Jim enjoyed camping at State Parks and especially near Lake Michigan. They ventured on several cruises, particularly enjoying Royal Caribbean and Cozumel. Members of the Union League, frequent trips to Chicago began there and were followed by shopping downtown and visiting the zoo and other attractions. Marey’s favorite place was their home in Thonotosassa, Florida, where they stayed as often as possible. Marey delighted spending much of their time outside under an umbrella, playing board games. Many games of cribbage, Uno, Scrabble, and Phase 10 were played from the comforts of the deck. Always happy to partake in a friendly competition, she fully expected Jim to let her win once in a while. Marey loved the beach, bragged about her ability to tan so well, and enjoyed seeking out and trying new restaurants too.

Marey also enjoyed cooking, especially for others, and watching Food Network for new ideas. She was a master at transforming leftovers into something tasty that could be easily paired with her glass of wine. Wisely, she had the holidays catered, so she didn’t have to clean up.

A woman who chose to live each moment to the fullest, Marey radiated love, beauty, fun, and friendship. She welcomed every moment and person as a gift and never hesitated to give of her heart. In so doing, she proved a powerful role model for how to live a full and wholehearted life. Surely, her beautiful legacy will long live in the hearts and lives of those she so dearly loved and cared for.

Marey Lesman, of Portage, age 55, died on March 16, 2023. Born March 29, 1967, in Kalamazoo to John and Anne (Tate) Goudie, Marey is survived by her husband, Jim; children: Justin (Becky) Lesman, Riley Lesman, and Bradford Lesman; granddaughter: Natalie; siblings: Jeff (Karen) Goudie, Joe Goudie, Tom (Jen) Goudie, and Sean (Sarah) Goudie; and many nieces and nephews.

Please join us at a Life Story Visitation where food, drinks, and stories will be shared on Wednesday, March 22, from 5-7 PM at Betzler Life Story Funeral Homes, 6080 Stadium Drive, Kalamazoo, 269-375-2900. A Life Story Service will be held Thursday, March 23, at 11 AM, at the funeral home. Burial at Portage South Cemetery. Visit Marey’s webpage at BetzlerLifeStory.com to archive favorite memories, photos, and sign her guestbook. Memorial contributions may be made to Twelve Baskets Food Pantry or Connections Community Church FBO F.I.G.H.T.