Marie Theresa (Grenier) Hess, 97, of Dearborn, Michigan, passed away peacefully on February 26, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family. Marie exemplified love, warmth, humor, and devotion to her savior, Jesus Christ, to all who knew her.

Marie lived a long and vibrant life defined by faith, family, curiosity, and connection. A devoted Catholic, her faith was a steady foundation throughout her life. She was a fourth cousin of Saint Andre Besset, the family patron who looked over her entire family.

Marie was the beloved mother of three children—Charles (Nancy), Linda Hatkow (Tony), and Michael (Marcia)—each of whom remained close to her, especially in her later years. Charles supported her with financial guidance and weekly lunch dates, Linda lovingly cared for her health and beauty, and Michael ensured she was well supplied with groceries and laughter. She was immensely proud of all and loved them unconditionally.

Marie is survived by her sister Jeanette Catone, who resides in Arizona. She was preceded in death by her former husband, James, who passed away in 1993, and by her brothers Robert Grenier (Lucille) and James Grenier (Sharon). Marie was loved by her nieces and nephews.

Marie was a proud grandmother to six grandchildren: Alex (Kara), Andrew (Shelby Lindblad), Elise (Justin Kirtley), Michael (Rebekah), Brian (Becca), and Jeffrey (Madeline). She delighted in giving each a special nickname that reflected her keen observations and deep affection. She was also blessed with two great-grandchildren, Nathan and Matthew, who brought her tremendous joy.

A woman of many talents, Marie embraced a wide variety of roles throughout her life. In addition to being a dedicated homemaker, she worked in hospital administration, as a retail sales associate, licensed cosmetologist and hair stylist, and as a television producer for the closed-circuit television station at Henry Ford Village, where she lived for 27 years. She also volunteered for countless organizations, always eager to contribute and connect.

Marie had a remarkable gift for meeting new people and making them feel welcome. She was the "welcome ambassador" at Henry Ford Village for prospective and new residents, and befriended many of them.

Marie was notably tech-savvy well into her later years, introducing video chat into her family's culture long before it became commonplace. She was comfortable with all types of mobile devices, especially her beloved iPad, which helped her stay connected to the world and those she loved. She had a deep love of reading, always eager to learn, reflect, and lose herself in the pages of a good book on her Kindle.

When asked how she was doing, Marie would unfailingly reply, "Marvelous." Her caregivers and the staff at Henry Ford Village affectionately came to know her as "Ms. Marvelous," a fitting tribute to her bright spirit and positive outlook.

Above all, Marie cherished her family. She loved them deeply, laughed often, and left behind a legacy of faith, warmth, humor, and resilience. She died peacefully, surrounded by those who loved her most—a beautiful reflection of the life she lived. Her family takes comfort in knowing she passed peacefully, surrounded by the love she gave so freely throughout her life.

Family will receive friends Tuesday, March 3, 4:00 to 8:00 m at Howe-Peterson Funeral Home, 22546 Michigan Avenue, Dearborn. A funeral mass will be held on Wednesday, March 4, at 11:00am at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 22430 Michigan Avenue, Dearborn with family greeting friends beginning at 10:30am.

Marie Theresa will be dearly missed and forever remembered as truly "marvelous".