Martha "Jean" Mendyka

In loving memory of Martha (Jean) Mendyka who peacefully passed away at her home in Lincoln, Michigan on December 14th. Born in Port Huron, Michigan to Harry and Carrie Bugg on December 8, 1927. She lived life with a remarkable spirit.

She shared part of her journey with Joseph Mendyka, raising two daughters, Diane Schefferly of Lincoln and Jeanette Walker of Harrisville. Jean faced life's challenges with resilience, yet the passing of her husband Joe and her brothers Mike, Edward, Everette, Lyle and George Bugg. Along with the loss of her sisters Phyllis Baldwin, Louise Indish, Marjorie Phinney, Mary Ann Mahalak along with her beloved son-in-law, Jess left a hole that only her indomitable spirit could fill. In the embrace of her family, her legacy lives on, a testament to the enduring love and strength that defined her remarkable life.

"Mean Jean," as affectionately called by the students she transported, became a respected fixture during her dedicated tenure as a bus driver for Alcona Community Schools. Her no-nonsense approach mirrored her commitment to ensuring the best for those under her care. Meanwhile, as a waitress at the Old Stove in Lincoln, Jean's efficiency was matched only by her genuine warmth, leaving an indelible mark on those she served.

Jean's zest for life was infectious, evident in her spunky, independent spirit. Whether tending to her flowers and yard, participating in the local horseshoe league or enjoying a Tigers baseball game with a beer in hand, Jean embraced every moment.

Her legacy is one of hard work, an unwavering love for family, and a never-give-up attitude. Jean is survived by her daughters, Diane Schefferly and Jeanette Walker, her longtime companion Harry McCracken, as well as a loving array of grandchildren: Amy  Faszczewski, Matthew Walker, Adam Byce and wife Shelly, Michael Walker and wife Stephanie. Her sister Rose Mahalak, three sister-in-laws Betty. Bugg, Delores Quick and Jenny Michel. 

Jean cherished all ten of her great-grandchildren, spending precious moments with each of them: Devon Seymour, Zackery Faszczewski, Dylan Faszczewski, Amiyah Walker, Caden Walker, Kendylle Byce, Travis Walker, Ava Byce, Brady Walker, and Camille Walker.

To those who knew her, Jean was a force of nature—stubborn, sometimes cranky, fun-loving, and family-oriented. Her culinary talents were unmatched, with strawberry jam, buckeyes, and chocolate sheet cake all will be remembered fondly. A woman who could go beer for beer with you and throw a mean horseshoe, Jean leaves a void that cannot be filled. As we remember Jean, we honor a woman whose legacy is etched in hard work, an unwavering love for family, and a tenacious spirit that never yielded. The world has bid farewell to a remarkable soul, and Jean's memory will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. There will be no memorial service for Jean, our wish is that everyone whose lives were touched by Jean embrace her spirit and live their lives to the fullest and cherish your family every day. 

Cremation arrangements were made through Gillies Funeral Home, Lincoln.  No services are planned.