Mary Lee Brackenrich

Mary Lee Brackenrich, affectionately known as “Cookie,” passed away on October 22, 2026, in Ann Arbor, Michigan, at the age of 84. Born in Detroit on December 2, 1941, to Leona “Lee” and Angelo “Charlie” Maisano, Mary lived a full and spirited life, leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, cherished traditions, and memories that her family will carry with them forever.

Cookie was truly one of a kind. Spunky, independent, and headstrong. She was never one to sit quietly on the sidelines; she was determined, and if she really wanted something she let herself have it! She had a quick wit, and a personality that could light up a room. Proud of her Italian roots, she brought warmth, character, and a little extra spice wherever she went. She had a way of becoming the star of the show without even trying, and she loved making people feel special. She wanted to be liked, and with her unmistakable charm and larger-than-life personality, it was easy to see why she was so loved.

Mary was a woman of many passions. Throughout her life, she embraced opportunities to enjoy herself and try new things. She enjoyed archery alongside her husband, Tom, and golfing with her daughter Debbie. She bowled, rode four-wheelers, and loved fishing. She also had a deep love for the sunshine, even spending many years in Florida. She knew how to enjoy the things she loved, and she did so on her own terms.

Of all the things Cookie enjoyed, family was at the heart of so much of her life, with traditions like her beloved Sunday dinners. She had a gift for making holidays feel magical, filling her home with the comfort, excitement, and warmth that made everyone look forward to coming together. As a grandmother, Cookie created a world of her own for her four grandchildren. Sleepovers at Grandma Cookie’s house meant special memories, plenty of love, and one particularly important rule: pancakes AND French toast for breakfast. Cookie was a wonderful cook and enjoyed teaching her children and grandchildren their way around a kitchen.

Mary’s nickname, “Cookie,” began when she was just a baby, given to her by her father, Charlie. The name stayed with her throughout her life, becoming a beloved part of who she was. To those closest to her, she was often simply “Cook.” And those who knew her best will forever remember her signature “Fooongja” kiss and the familiar “Muuuah” she offered at the end of every phone call. These little rituals were uniquely hers, and they will live on in the hearts of those who loved her.

Cookie was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 48 years, Thomas Brackenrich; her parents, Lee and Charlie Maisano and her brother Frank Maisano. She leaves behind her daughters, Cheri Clark (Ron Thybault) and Debbie Busard; her grandchildren, Heather (Matt) Gardner, Chelsea (Jeramia) Root, David (Tara) Busard, and Kevin (Kayla) Busard; and her great-grandchildren, Jeramia, Thomas, Maggie, Kolton, Kinsley, Hunter, AJ, and Raelin. She is also survived by her sister-in-law, Sandra, along with extended family members and dear friends who will miss her dearly.

Though her chair at the table may now be empty, the memories she made and the love she gave will remain forever.

We’ll save you a seat. Until we meet again, Grandma Cookie. *Muuuah*.

*Memorial information will be updated when available.