Obituaries

Mable Annie Evelyn Bird, lovingly known as Evie, was born on December 21, 1933, in Thessalon, Ontario. At seven years old, the family moved to Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, where she enjoyed her mom's fried potatoes and bologna every school day for lunch. At sixteen, Evie was working at the Alpha Grill when the love of her life, Elmer “Van” Charles VanDusen, walked in wearing his military uniform. She never could resist a man in uniform! They married a year later and started to grow their roots and family in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan.

Evie was always known for her strong work ethic, but maybe more so for her kindness, care, and love she showed to each of her coworkers and customers. If you ever met Evie, you remembered her, or at least the hug that she gave you!

She took great pride in the many years of service she had in the many places that were lucky to have her. Lockview Restaurant, Kresge’s Department Store, Walmart, Rite Aid, and the Sault Evening News.

Evie had a special way of being that let everyone know that she loved and cared for them. This was made so very apparent by the visitors, messages, and gifts. We've heard more than a few times: "Everyone says that their mom is the best, but yours really is!” She really was the best.

The loved ones left behind are filled with pride, knowing that they are a part of her and that she will live on through them.

Her husband, Elmer, predeceased her on January 10, 1988.

She was also predeceased by her parents, John and Gertrude Bird; brother, Leslie; and sister-in-law, Betty.

Evie is survived by her three daughters, Brenda (Sonny) Goodchild of Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, Wendy (Dan) Shields of Clarksville, Michigan, and Rhonda (Spencer) Payne of Gaylord, Michigan.

Grandchildren; Jason Goodchild, Tianna (Chris) Kellar, Justin Goodchild, Nicholas Goodchild, Travis Shields, Trisha Shields, Stephanie (Evan) Morgan, Heather (Jared) McCleave, and Annalise (Austin)Wilkinson.

Great Grandchildren: Kingston Keller, Cohen Keller, Cruz Kellar, Gibson Goodchild, Jason Fox, Ethan Fox, Enley McCleave, Kingsley Morgan, RiverLynne Morgan, Willow Morgan, and Walker Morgan.

Nieces and Nephews: Beth (late Neil) Phieffer, Lynne (Fausto) Pighin, Ronnie Bird, and Donna Bird.

In her later years, Evie always looked forward to attending her out-of-town appointments with her three girls, and they would laugh and laugh and laugh. She always enjoyed Englebert Humperdinck and treasured his sweaty "neckerchief" which she kept safe in a Ziploc baggie next to his framed picture at her bedside. Whenever we hear his name, we will smile and think of her.

Evie's sense of humor and laugh were one of a kind, the kind that was infectious. You could find her in a crowded room if you just listened for a moment. We're confident that those reading will hear that laugh and laugh at the memory. Sweet Evie.

On her last days, Evie proved to be her feisty self with winks and smiles for the men in her life, and a clear indication that she would NOT be eating that slop, but found relief and joy out of a cold taste of Pepsi.

In the end, December 14, 2025, just shy of her 92nd birthday, Evie was surrounded by the loving presence and touch of her three girls while listening to Josh Grobin's "You Raise Me Up." Mom, you raise us up. The brightest light of our lives is gone.

From Evie…

"Love yous all…toodaloo”.

Donations in her name to Hearthside Assisted Living, 1501 W. 6th Avenue in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, would be gratefully appreciated!

Per Evie’s wishes no services are being held at this time.

Evie’s final resting place will be at Oaklawn Chapel Gardens in Bruce Township, Michigan.

Family Life Funeral Homes – Sault Ste. Marie assisted the family with arrangements. Condolences may be given to the family at www.familylifefh.com.