Mary "June" Grates

May 28, 1926 - September 25, 2017

Mary “June” Grates (born Essenmacher) of Mesa, Arizona passed away on August 19, 2017. June is survived by her five children; John Grates, Mary Kamego, Theresa James, Janie Lennert and Laura Smedema; 5 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren. She is also survived by her sister, Marjorie Murawske. June was preceded in death by her husband of 66 years, Charles Grates and by her daughter Julianne. June was born at home on May 28,1926 near Harbor Beach, Michigan. She attended school in Sherman Township and worked in retail before marrying Charles on 9/29/47. June devoted her life to her family and was a warm, loving Mom and Grandma. June loved taking road trips especially to the western states before retiring to Arizona in 1986. She enjoyed reading, sewing, and playing Shoot the Moon. June loved visiting Laughlin, Nevada where she was convinced a royal flush was always waiting for her. A memorial service will take place Saturday, October 7, 2017 at 11 am at St. Anthony's Catholic Church of Helena, of the Holy Name of Mary Parish. Friends may gather from 10 am until time of services at 11 am. Arrangements are being handled by the Ramsey Funeral Home of Harbor Beach. Memories can be shared at www.RamseyFH.com