Mary Lou was born in Dearborn, Michigan, the third child of James and Muriel Gies, and grew up with her loving parents and two mischievous but devoted older brothers. After graduating from Fordson High School, she began her career as a secretary at Cadillac Motor Car, where she rediscovered a familiar face — her future husband, Allan. Their romance blossomed, and the two married in 1964.

After the birth of their first daughter, Mary Lou joyfully took on the role of doting wife and stay-at-home mother — a calling she cherished above all. Her family was her world, and she was over the moon when she earned the coveted title of "Grandma." She was her grandchildren's greatest cheerleader through their busy school years.

To unwind, Mary Lou loved time outdoors — often barefoot — gardening or reading in the shade. A gifted seamstress, she sewed outfits for her young children and later served as the family tailor. Through the North Farmington Garden Club, she formed lifelong friendships while working to beautify outdoor spaces. “Lou and Al” established several close friendships in their early twenties that continue to this day, developed over a lifetime of shared events, vacations, and adventures. They also shared a passion for Corvettes, enjoying annual road trips with fellow enthusiasts.

The Kotziers loved to travel. After Al's retirement, they purchased their beloved motorhome, "Flipper," and set off to explore the country for weeks at a time — Mary Lou with cooking magazines always in hand. Mary Lou's all-time favorite destination was Hilton Head, South Carolina. A devout Catholic and parishioner of St. Fabian Catholic Church, she made a habit of finding the local Mass schedule wherever she went.

In later years, when travel became difficult, Mary Lou filled her days with cooking, baking, crafting, puzzles, and reaching out to others. She always remembered the birthdays and special occasions of those she loved. Everyone who knew her remarked on her warm smile and generous spirit.

Survived By

Beloved wife of Allan for 61 years • Loving mother of Laura (Gerald) Poulsen and Karen (Robert) Grimes • Cherished grandmother of Sarah, Cameron, Nathan, Bennett, Mary, and Jenna • Predeceased by her parents and her brothers, Ronald and Robert Gies

Services

Visitation

Tuesday, May 12 • 3:00 p.m. • Rosary Service at 7:00 p.m. McCabe Funeral Home • 31950 W. 12 Mile Rd., Farmington Hills

Funeral Mass

Wednesday, May 13 • Lying in state 10:30 a.m. • Mass at 11:00 a.m. St. Fabian Catholic Church • 32200 W. 12 Mile Rd., Farmington Hills

Interment

Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, Southfield

In Mary Lou's memory, donations may be made to The Bee & Butterfly Habitat Fund — a fitting tribute to a woman who loved the beauty of the natural world.