Mary Lee (Trulson) Michaels

February 5, 1930     ~     January 6, 2023

Mary Lee (Trulson) Michaels, the daughter of the late Dr. Palmer and Jane (Smith) Trulson lived most of her life in South Bend, IN and Chicago, IL.

Mary had a happy childhood and especially loved the family’s summers at Birch Lake.  Mary was a graduate of Riley High School, The Patricia Stevens Modeling School in Chicago, and she attended Indiana University, Bloomington.

On September 10, 1955, in South Bend, Mary married Jerome Edmond Michaels who preceded her in death on May 1, 2020.  She was also preceded in death by her brother, John S. Trulson.

Mary is survived by her three sons, Mark P. (Bettina) Michaels of Nashville, TN; Christopher J. (Lisa) Michaels of Granger, IN; Timothy J. Michaels of Naples, FL; and daughter, Jennifer Jane Beacom of Wilmette, IL; and also eight grandchildren: Lucas, Christian, Carter, Ryan, Ella, Spencer, Madeline, and Thomas.

Mary was a professional model in Chicago prior to attending Indiana University, Bloomington.  She loved young children, and after raising her own children became a revered sales associate for over 30 years at the children’s clothing store Buttons & Bows.   Mary was a wonderful wife, mother, and proud grandmother. She and Jerry had a full social life with their numerous close friends, especially tailgating at Notre Dame Football games and at the former University Club, which was one of their favorite spots. She loved life and was a “World Class Shopper.” Jerry fondly called her his “Little Spending Machine.”

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Tuesday, January 10, 2023 at 9:30 AM at the Basilica of the Sacred Heart on the campus of Notre Dame.  Father Paul Doyle, C.S.C., a close friend, will be the celebrant.  Burial will follow at St. Joseph Valley Memorial Park, Granger, IN. 

Contributions in memory of Mary Lee Michaels may be made to the Center for Hospice Care, 501 Comfort Place, Mishawaka, IN  46545.

01.07.2023 djb