Denise Marie McCleery

Denise Marie McCleery, age 74, of St. Helen, MI, passed away peacefully at Crawford Continuing Care Center in Grayling, MI on September 5, 2025, after a short fight with Vulvar Cancer.

Denise was born on December 15, 1950, in Flint, MI to John and Barbara (Parks) Bell. She is survived by her children, April Mater, Roger Mater, and Jay (Judy) Kotarski; grandchildren, Richie, Autumn, Amanda, Ashley, Keaton, and Brody; siblings, Mary Ann (Marshall) Gill, Debbie Cassel, Cindy Durden, Carla Snider, and Steven Snider; and boyfriend, Kenneth Bertram.

She is preceded in death by her children, Gina Lanter and Sherry Mater; parents, John and Barbara; husband George Kotarski; and sister Patti Winer.

Denise is best remembered by loved ones for her selflessness. Her support and love were never something to be earned, rather something that she gave to those around her with everything she had—unwavering and steadfast in the face of every adversity. She had an admirable habit of always putting others’ needs before her own. Not only was Denise a mother to her own children, but she was also known as “Mom” to countless others…friends of her kids whom she took in over the years and helped raise and care for them, as if they were her own. She was the kind of woman who quietly, and without ever asking for anything in return, changed the lives around her for the better. Her absence is so profoundly felt.

Denise loved to spend time with her family above all else, especially with her grandson, Brody. She enjoyed cooking, watching hummingbirds, and loved driving around for fun. She liked to go fishing, sightseeing, and to the casino with her Boyfriend Ken. She also loved her gran-dog, Carl.

Denise's family would like to extend a special “Thank-You” to Crawford Continuing Care Center. Their staff were exceptional during Denise's care and are very appreciated.

Cremation has taken place, and a private family gathering will take place at a later date. Condolences can be shared with Denise's family at www.sorensonlockwood.com.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Sorenson-Lockwood Funeral Home.