Marie Elizabeth Decator, 79, of Haslett, Michigan, passed away peacefully at her home on June 19, 2026, after a short illness.

Marie lived a life defined by love, generosity, creativity, and devotion to her family. She retired from the State of Michigan after a distinguished 35-year career as a computer analyst, where she was respected for her dedication and work ethic.

Outside her career, Marie found joy in the simple pleasures of life. She was an artist who loved creating works of art, tending to her gardens, reading, and cooking for those she loved. She was a collector of books on Abraham Lincoln and had a fondness for grizzly bears, Elvis Presley and chocolate. She also cherished the performing arts and was a longtime season ticket holder at the Wharton Center in East Lansing, where she enjoyed countless theatrical performances.

Above all else, Marie's greatest joy was her family. She was a loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend who would do anything for those she loved. She was generous to those she did not know. Her unwavering kindness, strength, and support will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Marie is survived by her daughter Teresa Decator-Yarbrough (Ken); her son Daniel Decator (Anne); her daughter, Beth Stotler; her grandson, Nicholas J. Decator; his two children, Nicholas M. and Chloe Decator; treasured grand and greatgrandchildren; brother, Gordon Shanafelt (Patricia); sister, Ellen Shanafelt; and many nieces, nephews extended family and friends.

Marie was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Francis "Tarze" Decator; her daughter, Cristy Held; her son, Aron Decator; her parents, Fay and Bernice (Booher) Shanafelt; and her brother, Sheldon Shanafelt.

Marie's roots ran deep in the close-knit community of Avondale, eight miles north of Evart, where she grew up in the Avondale General Store. She often shared cherished stories from her childhood there. Treasured memories helped shape the values of kindness, community, and lifelong friendships that Marie carried with her throughout her life.

Marie leaves behind a legacy of compassion, creativity, laughter, and unconditional love. Though she is no longer with us, the memories she created and the lives she touched will continue to inspire her family and friends for generations to come.

Visitation will be held from 1PM to 3PM and 5PM to 7PM on Wednesday at the Corey Funeral Home in Evart and two hours prior (11AM to 1PM) to the 1PM Thursday, June 25th, Funeral Service at the funeral home. Marie will be laid to rest at Cherry Valley Cemetery, Hartwick Twp., Osceola Co., MI. Condolences can be left online at www.coreyfuneralhome.com

Memorial contributions can be made to UM Health Sparrow Home Hospice secure.qgiv.com/for/spaheasys