Mary Jean TenBrock's Obituary
Surrounded by her family, Mary Jean TenBrock (Gutt), 77, of Muskegon, Michigan, passed away on March 20, 2026, after a brief battle with cancer.
Born June 11, 1948, in Muskegon to Andrew and Carolyn Gutt, Mary was raised in the community she loved and faithfully served throughout her life. She attended Muskegon Catholic High School and went on to build a life centered around family, faith, and music.
Mary had a deep love for music and spent many years sharing her gift with churches throughout Muskegon County. She also volunteered her time playing music in nursing and assisted-living homes, bringing comfort and joy to countless people. At home, she filled the house with energy and pure joy as she played polka music on her accordion, often getting the whole family up dancing. She made sure to teach all of her kids and grandkids how to kick up their leg and “be Polish.”
Mary also worked as a cashier at Meijer Thrifty Acres in the 1970s and 1980s, where she connected with many in the community. In later years, she worked at Quality Farm & Fleet in data entry, where she formed lasting friendships that meant so much to her—and where the legendary “butt bowling” tournament days became part of her story. Her fun-loving spirit carried into family traditions as well, especially during Christmas gatherings filled with laughter, including unforgettable leg-wrestling shenanigans.
In her retirement, Mary found happiness in the simple things she loved most—tending to her beautiful koi pond, fishing, occasional trips to the casino, and watching football. Her beloved koi pond became a gathering place for the whole family, especially during the cherished annual “Pond Day at Grandma’s,” where memories were made and traditions were carried on. She was a devoted Detroit Lions fan who watched every game, often texting friends and family play-by-play, and never quite got used to the change from Matthew Stafford to Jared Goff.
Her greatest pride and joy were her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. After raising five children, she cherished every moment spent with her growing family. She also shared 47 years of marriage with her beloved husband, Dan—a relationship filled with devotion, humor, and the kind of bond she would often describe as not being able to live with or without him.
Mary was someone truly special to everyone who knew her, and her love was reflected in the many nicknames she was given over the years—Granny, Gee, Momma T, Cuckoo Grandma, GG, Gutt, and so many more.
Mary is survived by her loving husband, Dan TenBrock; her sisters, Deb Gutt and Carol Baade; and her children: Christy Hester (Bob Lennox), Carie Andree (Michael), Craig Critchett, Deanna Tuinstra (Alan), and Daniel TenBrock (Bethany). She also leaves behind many beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
A woman of deep faith, Mary’s final words were from the 23rd Psalm: “I shall not want”—and truly, she did not. She lived simply, loved deeply, and brought a larger-than-life personality to everyone blessed to know her.
In agreement with Mary's wishes, there will be no formal funeral arrangements. Instead, her family will continue to honor her life and legacy by gathering each year for the beloved “Pond Day at Grandma’s,” celebrating the love, traditions, and memories she created.
Arrangements by Shoreline Memorial Services -- Muskegon Chapel -- (231)-722-5050
What’s your fondest memory of Mary?
What’s a lesson you learned from Mary?
Share a story where Mary's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Mary you’ll never forget.
How did Mary make you smile?