MaryAnne Benham

MaryAnne (Schneider) Benham 86, of Cedar Springs, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and faithful servant of Christ, passed away peacefully on June 7, 2026. She was born November 26, 1939 in Sparta, MI the daughter of Ivan and Leona (Arends) Schneider. MaryAnne lived a life centered on faith, family and quiet joys.

She graduated from Mercy Central School of Nursing in 1960 and dedicated many years to nursing caring for others with compassion and skill. In 1961, she married the love of her life, Robert (Bob) Benham of Cedar Springs, Michigan. Together they shared 65 beautiful years of marriage, building a home filled with love and laughter. Her life was defined by a fierce devotion to the Catholic Church and an unwavering love for Christ, which guided her every step. Her passion in life was her complete dedication to her family. She cherished her husband deeply and poured her heart into loving and supporting her children, grandchildren and extended family. She found great joy in simple pleasures, especially fishing and camping with her loved ones and dear friends. Deeply connected to her parish family at St. John Paul Catholic Church, MaryAnne treasured her special bond with her prayer sisters, who brought her great love and spiritual companionship.

Mary Anne is survived by her loving husband, Bob; her children: Denny (Cheryl) Benham, Amy (Brad) Smith, and Ken (Michelle) Benham; her grandchildren: Morgan (Trent) Jackson, Courtney (Ryan) Austin, Molly (Jake) Stevens, Nicole (Isaac) Miller, Erica (Justin) Torres, Randy Smith, Olivia (Brenden) Bogema, and Ethan Smith; step-grandchildren: Christopher Davis and Emily Davis; seven great-grandchildren; and many beloved nieces and nephews. She is also survived by her siblings: Joan Schneider, Bob Schneider, Steve & Terrie Schneider, Joe Jonaitis, Judy & Bob Dietrich, and Rita & Joe Nowack.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Ivan and Leona Schneider; her son, Brian Benham; and her siblings, Ron Schneider, Dan Schneider, Jane Jonaitis, and Kathy Schneider.

Mary Anne’s legacy lives on in the faith she instilled, the love she gave so freely, and the strong family that she anchored. Her gentle spirit, unwavering devotion, and quiet strength will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

The family will greet friends Friday, June 12 from 5 – 8 pm at the K.E. Pike Funeral Home, Cedar Springs where a Rosary will be prayed at 7:30 pm. Mass of Christian Burial will be Saturday 12:00 pm at St. John Paul II Catholic Church, 3110 17 Mile Road, Cedar Springs. Rev. Fr. Lam Le officiating. Interment St. Margaret’s Cemetery, Harvard. Memorial contributions may be made to Corewell Health Hospice or St. John Paul II Catholic Church.