Mary A. (Perry) Spencer

Age 81, of Phoenix, AZ, formerly of Kalamazoo, MI, passed away on June 13, 2025. She was born in Kalamazoo on September 1, 1943, the daughter of the late James B. and Mary F. Morland. She grew up in Kalamazoo and graduated from St. Augustine High School, Class of 1961. She then attended Nazareth College to become an LPN and worked at Verdries Nursing Home. After completing her studies, she began her professional career in nursing at Borgess Hospital where she worked until 1982 when she moved to Phoenix, AZ, to further her education and become a Registered Nurse. Mary remained dedicated to the medical field and those she served for over fifty-three years. In September of 1965, she married Thomas Fleckenstein who preceded her in passing in April of this year. When not working Mary pursued many passions and hobbies. She was an avid reader, loved to cook and entertain, especially during the holidays. She loved the Arizona sunshine and enjoyed floating in the pool on a hot day. She loved the hustle and bustle of Chicago and enjoyed taking the train downtown; something she had done since high school and a tradition she passed on to her family. While in the “Windy City” she always made a point to visit her favorite store, Marshal Fields on State Street, and have lunch in The Walnut Room during Christmas. When visiting Kalamazoo, she enjoyed going to antique stores and driving the old Vine Street neighborhood sharing stories of her youth. She was also a gardener and took pride in being able to grow tomatoes and herbs in the hot Arizona weather. Mary was kind, loving and caring. A woman of compassion, class and joy, her laughter and smile will be missed by all who knew her. Mary is survived by two children, Cammy Fleckenstein and Kevin Fleckenstein; grandchildren, Emily, Ethan, and Brandon Fleckenstein; great-grandson, Evan Fleckenstein; extended family and friends. She was also preceded in passing by her grandmother, Frieda Gerline; stepfather, Ype Verdries; stepmother, Toni Verdries.