Mae

Carol Mae Markstrom, age 96, longtime resident of South Haven, passed away on September 6, 2026. She was born on February 17, 1930, in Covert, Michigan, daughter of Francis and Clara (Aulie) Beckwith. Mae, as she was known by her family and friends, grew up in Covert and graduated from Covert High School with the Class of 1946. On September 6, 1947, she was united in marriage to Leonard F. Markstrom. They shared 62 wonderful years of marriage, building a life together until his passing on August 26, 2009.

Once her children were grown, Mae began a career as a bookkeeper with Murk Management in South Haven. She quickly became a valued and trusted employee, known for her honesty, strong work ethic, and dedication. After retiring in 1995, the company missed her dependable presence so much that they asked her to return part-time, a true testament to the respect she earned throughout her career.

Mae was a lifelong and devoted member of Peace Evangelical Lutheran Church, where her faith was an important part of her life. She was actively involved in many church activities and generously gave her time wherever she was needed. Over the years, Mae volunteered with the Mary Martha Circle, assisted with the Altar Guild, and participated in the Loyals group. For many years, she and her husband faithfully attended Thursday evening services together, and she remained devoted to growing in her faith through weekly Bible study. Her church community held a special place in her heart, and she treasured the fellowship and friendships she found there.

Mae had an adventurous spirit and loved being active. An avid bicyclist, she pedaled across Lower Michigan as well as the west coast shoreline, camping along the way. She continued riding well into her 60s, both locally and in organized rides like the Blossomtime festival ride and further afield like on a Vermont bike tour. She also loved spending time on Osterhout Lake, where she was an accomplished water skier and patiently taught many family members and friends the art of water skiing. Mae was also an avid reader who enjoyed her daily devotions as well as novels by her favorite author, Danielle Steel.

A devoted mother, Mae was always there to support her children and their activities attending baseball, football, and basketball games, track meets and tennis matches. She served as an elementary school room mother, a Brownie leader and a 4-H leader, generously giving her time and creating special memories along the way.

Above all, Mae was known for her genuine kindness and thoughtfulness. She made a point of keeping in touch with friends and family, checking on those around her to make sure they were doing well. Birthdays rarely went unnoticed, as Mae lovingly created and sent handmade cards During the holidays, she was known for her fruitcakes, including a special fruitcake she made for her pastor every year for more than 40 years. She was also skilled at preserving the bounty of each season, freezing and canning everything she could, including lima beans, green beans, fruit, pickles, and much more. Whether through a handmade card, something from her kitchen, or simply taking the time to check in, Mae had a special way of making people feel remembered and cared for.

Mae is survived by her children, Terry Markstrom, Tom (Marlies) Markstrom, Timothy (Carmen) Markstrom, and Tina (Richard) Lewis; her sisters-in-law, Laura Beckwith, Judy Beckwith, and Linda Beckwith; her grandchildren, Jessica (Eric) Vanston and Erik (Amanda) Markstrom; and her great grandchildren, Dean, Jude, Miles, Avery, and Violet. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, and her siblings, Agatha Kiry, Elvira Howe, Jeanette Landry, Neil Beckwith, Dale Beckwith, Phil Beckwith, and Dean Beckwith.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, September 12, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. with visiting beginning at 10:00 a.m. at Peace Evangelical Lutheran Church, 06321 Blue Star Memorial Hwy, South Haven, MI 49090.

In lieu of flowers the family would appreciate memorial contributions to Peace Evangelical Lutheran Church.