Mary Jane Murton

(Mary) Jane Murton (nee Bicknell) Clare, MIchigan December 1, 1933 – February 23, 2020 On Sunday afternoon, February 23, 2020, (Mary) Jane Murton, 86, passed away peacefully with family by her side at the Medilodge care facility in Clare, MI. The daughter of Mark and Audrey (Morgan) Bicknell, Jane was born in Mount Pleasant on December 1, 1933, along with her twin brother John Bicknell. She was preceded in death by her husband, Curtis Smith Murton Jr., her son John David Murton, her brother John, and her parents. Jane is survived by her four remaining children Mark (Lori) of Gainesville, Florida; Scott of Decatur, Michigan, Gail (Doug) of Saint Paul, Minnesota, and Lynn of Clare; her three granddaughers Marley Monson (Cory) of Alexandria, Virginia, Hannah Sartor (Mason) of Saint Paul, Minnesota, and Ruby Murton of Ann Arbor, Michigan; her step-grandchildren Andy (Alejandra), Caity (Colby) and Kyle Brakeman; Andy and Alejandra’s twins (her great-granddaughers) Valentia and Violetta; several nieces and nephews; and her beloved dog Ginger. After graduating from Clare High School, Jane received her BA in English and subsequently obtained her Master’s in Education from Central Michigan University. Jane not only held down the fort at home but also had an active professional career, including working as an English teacher, probation officer, real estate agent, home-school teacher for kids with special needs, retail salesperson, and educational researcher. In later life she volunteered to help kids, animals, and the communities where she lived in the United States and Mexico. Jane was independent, resourceful, bright, witty, and adventurous. She loved her family, friends, reading, daily crossword puzzle, jigsaw puzzles, cards, golf, winters in Mexico, her horses and dogs, the Republican Party, Michigan football, and chocolate-covered peanuts. Her spirited nature was exemplified by her zip-lining through the Mexican jungle for her 80th birthday, which earned her the moniker “Superabuela” (Supergrandma). She will be greatly missed by those who knew and loved her. Services for Jane will be held at the Congregational Church in Clare this summer (date to be determined). Memorial contributions in Jane’s memory can be made to the Clare County Animal Shelter (clarecountyanimalshelter@yahoo.com). Jane’s family invites you to share your photos, videos and stories on Jane’s tribute page at www.stephenson-wyman.com.

Mary Jane Murton

December 1, 1933 - February 23, 2020