Doris (Deanie) DeMars, age 83, of Okemos, Michigan, passed away on February 14, 2021.

Beloved Wife of the late Robert A. DeMars, Michigan State Representative.

Dearest Mother of Maeann DeMars-Gozalka and Mother In Law of Norman Gozalka.

Loving Grandmother of Kaili, Robert, and Noah.

Precious Aunt to many nieces and nephews.

Dearest Sister of Vonceil Bruce, Ronnie Lockard, the late Lois (Sissy) Wilson, the late Kelly Lockard, the late Ted Lockard, the late J.C. Lockard, and the late Elwood Smith.

Loving Daughter of the late Lucas (Dock) Lockard and the late Ethel Mae Lockard.

Deanie grew up in the small coal mining town of Glen Alum, West Virginia. She elected to pursue a career in teaching and after initially earning a bachelor's degree from Marshall University, she continued her college education and received a master's degree from the University of Michigan.

She dedicated her life to teaching full-time elementary education for 36 years, primarily in Lincoln Park, and it was her life's greatest purpose fulfilled. She not only believed in equal education for all but understood the important role that a teacher can have in positively influencing students lives through encouragement, insight, and inspiration. She said that teaching is not just within the bounds of books, but in recognizing the positive words and actions that can impact one's future.

So many students would say they will always remember "Mrs. DeMars" and would frequently thank her for the amazing impact she had on their lives. It was during her time teaching that she met the love of her life and husband, the late Robert A. DeMars, Michigan State Representative.

Additionally, Deanie was an incredible artist and a master china painter. She also enjoyed painting on canvas. The subject of her work primarily consisted of beautiful florals and nature scenes. She has gifted many of her works over the years to family and friends which will be treasured for years to come.

The visitation and funeral will be held at the Howe-Peterson Funeral Home located at 9800 Telegraph Rd., Taylor, MI 48180.

Public Visitation: Friday, February 19, 2021, from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Due to Covid restrictions the funeral is a private memorial. It will be held on February 20, 2021. Please note that the funeral service will be recorded and available for viewing online at the Howe-Peterson Funeral Home Facebook page.