Manistique Mourns maryjo Sablack, 97: Bank Leader, Community Matriarch
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Breaking news from Manistique, Michigan: Mary Josephine “MaryJo” Sablack, a beloved figure in the community, has died at age 97. She passed away on Sunday, December 7, 2025, at the Schoolcraft Medical Care facility, surrounded by family and caregivers who honored her long life.
MaryJo was born on November 2, 1928, in Detroit to Nicola and Anna Parente. She grew up within a large,close-knit family that influenced her lifelong dedication to friends,neighbors,and civic duties. After graduating from Siena heights College, she moved to Manistique, where her parents had previously relocated to operate a tavern known in the community as Nick’s Bar (later The Three Mile Supper Club).
Her professional journey saw her rise to vice president at State Savings Bank, a tenure she began while helping at the family business and continued until her retirement in 1991.MaryJo married Paul Sablack in 1962. The couple built a home on Glenwood drive and later a cabin along the Manistique River, anchoring a family life filled with warmth and activity.
Known for her spirited nature,MaryJo enjoyed dancing,social bowling with her circle of friends,crocheting,and winter cross-country skiing with a neighbor along Lake Michigan. Even in later years,she embraced travel,casino trips,and winter residences in Miramar Beach,Florida,where she remained connected with Resurrection Catholic Church.
MaryJo is survived by nephews Dennis (Debbie) St. Pierre and Tom St. pierre; Rosemary sablack (widow of her late nephew Gilbert); and cousin Heidi (Doug) Troyer, along with numerous other nephews, nieces, and cousins. She was preceded in death by her husband Paul and her parents. The family extended gratitude to the dedicated staff at Schoolcraft Medical Care Facility for their compassionate care during MaryJo’s final year.
Funeral arrangements
A visitation is scheduled at St. Francis de Sales Church in Manistique at 11 a.m. on Friday, January 9, 2026, followed by a noon Mass with Father Ben Paris officiating. Fausett Family Funeral Homes is assisting with arrangements. Those who wish to honor MaryJo’s memory are invited to donate to the Saint Francis de Sales Education foundation.
Key facts at a glance
| Full Name | Mary Josephine “MaryJo” Sablack |
|---|---|
| Age | 97 |
| Hometown | manistique, Michigan |
| Date of Death | December 7, 2025 |
| Date of Birth | November 2, 1928 |
| Education | Siena Heights College |
| Occupation | Banker (Vice President at State Savings Bank); community volunteer |
| Spouse | paul Sablack (married 1962) |
| Residence | Home on Glenwood Drive; cabin on the Manistique River |
| Survivors | Nephws dennis (Debbie) St. Pierre; Tom St. Pierre; rosemary Sablack; Heidi (Doug) Troyer; numerous other relatives |
| Predeceased | Husband Paul Sablack; her parents |
| Funeral Home | Fausett Family Funeral Homes |
| Memorial Donations | Saint Francis de Sales Education Foundation |
Evergreen reflections: MaryJo’s life underscores how local leadership-whether in finance, faith communities, or daily neighborly actions-shapes a town’s social fabric. In communities like Manistique, dedicated professionals who balance careers with service leave a lasting imprint on generations to come. Her story echoes the broader narrative of small-town resilience, where banks, churches, and family networks work in concert to sustain neighborhoods through time.
what memory of MaryJo resonates most with you-her banking leadership, her community involvement, or her personal warmth? How do local figures like maryjo continue to influence your town today?
In your view, what small acts reinforce a town’s sense of belonging? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Share this remembrance to help others celebrate a life well lived, and join the conversation about the enduring impact of community pillars.
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