June L. Mason, 89, of Traverse City passed away December 20, 2018 in the comfort of her own home with her beloved daughters at her side.

June was born on June 22, 1929 in Battle Creek to the late Leon Stark and Lila (Oversmith) Tallman.

On December 27, 1947 June married the love of her life, Verle L. Mason. Verle was a student at the University of Michigan and June was studying at Michigan State University when they met. For their first date, they attended a Michigan football game. It was love at first sight. After a short courtship the two married and shared over 51 wonderful years together.

June was an environmentalist and an oil and gas consultant. She was instrumental in hydrocarbon exploration for the city of Traverse City which resulted in oil and natural gas production, which is continues today. June was also a nutritionist at Oak Park Elementary School for many years. Not one to sit idle, even in her retirement, she opened River Ridge Assisted Living in her 70's.

She had a vast knowledge of birds and plants and led tours throughout the world. Tour destinations included Australia/New Zealand, Iceland, Sweden, Jamaica/Trinidad/Tobago. She was a lifetime member of the Michigan Audubon Society. Additionally, she shared her extensive knowledge with students at NMC throughout the years. She was fondly referred to as "Mother Nature".

She was a 40 + year breast and lymphoma cancer survivor.

June will be remembered for her feisty spirit and extensive wealth of knowledge which she shared with many. Even in her absence she would want everyone to simply "Carry On"!

June is survived by her loving daughters Heather and Debbie and sister Betty (Albert) Frandsen.

June was preceded in death by her parents, husband Verle and siblings Duane, Nevene, Nona and Stan.

Memorial contributions in lieu of flowers may be directed to the Cherryland Humane Society.

The family is being cared for by the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home and Cremation Services.