Marie E. McLeieer, a devoted and compassionate nurse, a dedicated Portage Central Band Booster, and an esteemed community member, passed away on January 11, 2024, at 93. Marie’s life was marked by an unwavering commitment to serving others and a deep love for music.

Marie was born on April 20, 1930, to Paul and Edna Jeske in Port Huron, Michigan. She graduated from Port Huron High School before embarking on her nursing career journey. In 1955, she proudly earned her R.N. nursing degree from the Bronson School of Nursing, beginning a lifelong dedication to healthcare. In 1957, Marie married Robert O. McLeieer and had two children (Cathy McLeieer Scott and Michael McLeieer). Marie lived and cared for various animals on the family farm in Kalamazoo until recent years.

Throughout her life, Marie exhibited a deep faith as a Community of Christ Church (R.L.D.S.) member, where she generously shared her time and faith by teaching Sunday School for over five decades. Her spiritual devotion was a cornerstone of her character, and she touched the lives of countless individuals through her faith.

Marie had a profound passion for music, which she nurtured through her involvement with the Kalamazoo Oratorio Society and the Portage Central Bands. Her love for music was strong, and she brought joy to those around her through her singing and dedication to the arts.

Marie’s remarkable commitment to the Portage Central Bands spanned over four decades. From 1974 to 2016, she served as their nurse and medical director, ensuring the well-being of countless young musicians during band camps, rehearsals, concerts, trips, fundraisers, and football games. Her dedication to the student’s health and safety was unparalleled, and she attended virtually every C.M.S. and P.C.H.S. event during her tenure. After her retirement at 86, she continued to follow the Portage Central Band’s achievements through their Facebook page.

Marie’s volunteer contributions extended beyond her work with the band; she was an active member of the Bronson School of Nursing Alumni Association, now known as the Western Michigan University School of Nursing. Her commitment to her alma mater and the nursing profession demonstrated her long-term devotion to healthcare and nursing education.

Marie’s selflessness and dedication to volunteerism did not go unnoticed. She was honored in 2016 at the WOOD TV 8 Maranda Park Party in Kalamazoo, recognizing her 50+ years of service to the community. Additionally, she was nominated multiple times for the Kalamazoo and Battle Creek Region Star Awards because of her outstanding commitment to volunteerism and her impact on the Kalamazoo and Portage communities she served.

Marie’s legacy lives on through her loving family. She is survived by her children, Cathy (McLeieer) Scott (Waxahachie, TX) and Michael McLeieer (Kalamazoo, MI), her sister, Florence Braidwood (Quincy, IL), grandchildren Erica Scott (Waxahachie, TX), Riley (Tisha) Scott (Cranston, RI), great-grandchildren Drake Scott (Waxahachie, TX) and Iulia Scott (Cranston, RI), niece, Connie Flesner (Quincy, IL), nephew, Terry Braidwood (Springfield, IL), cousins Leslie (Art) Chimel (Richmond, VA), as well as a great-niece, Lana Flesner (Quincy, IL) and several great-cousins.

Marie’s dedication and love for nursing and music will be remembered by all who knew her. A private graveside service will be held in the Spring to honor her memory. The family has established a memorial nursing scholarship in Marie’s name so that her impact will be felt for generations to come. Memorial contributions to the scholarship may be made online at https://escapeinc.org/donate/ (Choose the Special Designation option and select the Marie E. McLeieer, RN Nursing Scholarship) or mailed to E.S.C.A.P.E, Inc. c/o of the Marie E. McLeieer, RN Nursing Scholarship, at P.O. Box 2977, Kalamazoo, MI 49003-2977.