Mildred Irene (Rebec Moore) Harris

Mildred I. Rebec, Harris, age 92, has fulfilled her bountiful purpose on this earth and peacefully joined in Heaven with the Lord our God on August 21, 2023.

Mildred (Millie), was born on October 19, 1930 at her home in East Jordan, Michigan. She was the daughter of Fred and Lillian (Sutton) Moore. Millie graduated from East Jordan High School in 1949. After school she went to work at the Creamery in East Jordan for two years, then on to Flint, MI to be closer to family and work for a while. She later moved back to her beautiful hometown of East Jordan. On February 12, 1955, she married Richard Joseph Rebec of East Jordan. Together they had 5 children. In her earlier years with Richard working, she took great delight and pleasure in being a Girl Scout leader and Cub Scout Den mother while raising her family. Unfortunately, Richard passed away from an accidental death in 1967. After his death, Millie went to work full time to provide for her five young children and their home.

On November 13, 1972, she married Leonard Robert Harris, of East Jordan. Together they had one child. When not working, they enjoyed so many things together such as: bowling, traveling, sight-seeing, and family gatherings. Unfortunately, once again, through hardships and adversities Len passed away in 1984 leaving her with a young son at home to raise.

Millie worked many years full time for Morweld Steel in Ellsworth, then went on to Manthei Inc. in Petoskey for 21 years, where she made many lifetime friendships leading up to her retirement in 1995.

She was a devoted member of the St. Joseph Catholic Church, a member of the womens auxiliary, a loyal friend, council and advice-giver to all who graced her company. Her blue eyes, Irish smile, charming personality, quick wit, positive disposition and love for life were the defining characteristics that invited so many into her life. Her genuine care and realistic, unconditional concern for others, formed a comfortable, mutual bond that made it so easy for the many that called her “Mom”. One of her remarkable traits she so often practiced was giving for the joy of helping others without ever expecting anything in return.

Millie truly enjoyed family reunions, playing bingo, visiting with family and friends, reading, writing poetry (and won a few contests), attending church, cooking, baking, cheering for her beloved Detroit Tigers, going to the casino, playing cards and watching birds & deer. Another much-loved hobby was playing guitar and singing, which inspired her to record an album with her brother George shortly before his accidental passing. Her positive outlook, faith in God, and spiritual attitude were a great enhancer to friends and family. She loved to bake and send delightful dishes and goodies home with anyone who visited her. Her signature dishes will be passed down through the family chain for many generations to come.

A generous heart always finds something to give; certainly, describes her best. Millie’s warm heart, spiritual advice and thoughtful ways have touched the lives of so many and will always be treasured and remembered.

Left to cherish her memory are her 6 children: Roger (Cindy) Rebec of Wyoming, MI; Richard Rebec and (Mary) of Kalamazoo; Rose Karaszewski of Boyne City; JoAnne (Dan) Thomas of East Jordan; Joe (Robyn) Rebec of East Jordan; Robert Harris and (Jason) of Indian River, fifteen grandchildren and twenty great grandchildren as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents Fred & Lillian Moore, 4 brothers Arnold Moore, Earl Moore, Harry Moore, George Moore and 4 sisters Ellen Hejhal, Muriel Hatley, Mae Evans, Arvilla Kowalske and a Son-in-law Ted Karaszewski.

A funeral Mass will be held on Friday, August 25, 2023, at 11:30 A.M. at the St. Joseph Catholic Church in East Jordan.  The family will receive friends on Thursday from 4:00 to 6:00 P.M. at St. Joseph Catholic Church with a rosary service at 6:00 P.M.

Memorial contributions may be made to the St. Joseph Catholic Church.   The family was served by the Penzien Funeral Homes, Inc., East Jordan.

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