TRAVERSE CITY — Mary "Tina" Lane passed away July 13, 2024. Tina is survived by her husband John, sons Nathan (Katie) Lane, Benjamin (Hilary) Lane, sister Susan Sarchet, brother Richard (Betty Jo) Sarchet, grandsons (Charlie, Graham, Logan and Grady), nieces, nephews, and friends.

Tina was born to William and Eileen Sarchet in Caro, Michigan. For the rest of her life she reflected fondly on her small town roots, loved fresh picked berries from roadside stands, farms, and fresh sweet corn (but only "peaches & cream"). She saw the value in being a true friend and good neighbor, took pride in her home and lovingly tended her beautiful garden.

Tina attended Albion College where she met her husband John of 53 years. Tina earned a Bachelors in Education, later teaching French and English for Royal Oak Public schools. In 1973, shortly after their wedding, Tina and John moved to Traverse City where they raised their family. Tina and John joined the Presbyterian Church and Tina remained an active member for the remainder of her life. She served as a deacon, chaperone on numerous youth group mission trips, member of the bell choir and volunteer in various positions. Tina was a lifelong learner who was never afraid to try new things including continuing her education and earning her Registered Nurse certification, learning to play the hammered dulcimer and starting a French group.

Tina was a voracious reader of books of every genre, but particularly biographies and historical works. Tina loved sports of all types, with a special fondness for U of M football, Red Wings Hockey, and whatever her sons and grandsons played. Nobody cheered louder than Tina when her sons or grandsons made a great play! Tina enjoyed the company of lifelong friends from Caro, Albion, her adopted hometown of Traverse City and her beloved bridge club. She loved nature, wild places and the many seasons of Northern Michigan. While she enjoyed the look of freshly fallen snow, she never did enjoy the challenges inherent to snowy weather. Tina was a dog person through and through, with the corgis and golden retrievers of her life at the top of her heart. Over the years, Tina enjoyed taking her dogs on walks around her home at the base of Old Mission, the tip of the peninsula, and trails of the old State Hospital grounds.

Tina was a fierce defender of women's rights, diversity, underdogs, and her own independence. She was determined to live her life to the fullest, preventing any illness or diagnosis from limiting her ability to enjoy the activities that made her life so great. Tina had an indomitable spirit and will be greatly missed by her family and countless friends.

In place of flowers, please consider making a donation in Tina's memory to: Presbyterian Church of Traverse City, Munson Hospice House, Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy, or a charity of your choice.

A celebration of life will be held at 2 pm on September 21, 2024, at Presbyterian Church, 701 Westminster Rd