Marie Ellen Pethe, 66 of Watervliet, MI, passed on peacefully on Friday, June 21, 2024, surrounded by her loving family following a determined three year battle with cancer. She was born on July 15, 1957, to Donald & Margaret Sexton of Watervliet. She was married to the love of her life, Bruce Pethe, on July 12, 1975, at St. Joseph Catholic Church. Marie was in her element while outdoors at her Watervliet home. Whether it was enjoying a peaceful evening on the patio with her Bruce, a raucous gathering of family at the pool, or tirelessly working in her stunning flowerbeds, this was where she found joy.

She is preceded in death by her husband of 47 years, Bruce Pethe and her parents Donald & Margaret Sexton. She is survived by her children, Rachel (Darren) Leins, Michael Pethe, and her four treasured grandchildren, Madison Smith, Grace Smith, Brooklyn Pethe & Lincoln Pethe. Additionally, she is survived by her 10 brothers & sisters: Don Sexton II, David (Shirley) Sexton, Tom (Jess) Sexton, Tim (Dawn) Sexton, Jim Sexton, Bob (Kirstie) Sexton, Bonnie Carnell, Kate (Dave) Oakley, Ann Nichols, Marge (Greg) Wildeman as well as an abundance of nieces and nephews.

A memorial mass for Bruce and Marie will be celebrated Saturday, July 20, 2024, 11:00 AM at St. Joseph Catholic Chuch in Watervliet. A private burial will follow mass. Hutchins Funeral Home in Watervliet is assisting the Pethe family with arrangements. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Caring Circle Hospice of Lakeland.

Corewell Health Hospice
4025 Health Park Lane, St. Joseph MI 49085
Tel: 1-269-429-7100
Web: http://www.lakelandhealth.org/caring-circle/give-now/donate