Marson Ma

Marson Ma, age 100 of Ann Arbor, Michigan passed away peacefully on August 26, 2024.

He was born in Canton, China and immigrated alone to the United States in 1950 with limited English proficiency. He started a new life in Detroit, Michigan. 

He was a beloved and devoted husband of 62 years to his late wife Ruth. He was the loving father of 17 children, 14 of whom survive him – Marlene Ma-Burrell, Marshall (Ying) Ma, Martha (Stephen) Jennings, Margot Ma, Marco Ma, Marsha Ma, Marcus (Paula) Ma, Margit Ma, Mario Ma, Marlowe (Emmeline) Ma, Marla (John) Ma, Marek (Amy) Ma, Marvel (Nina) Ma, and Marisa Ma. He was also survived by his daughter-in-law, Mila Ma, wife of Marson Ma Jr. His three sons: Marson Ma Jr, Marvin Ma, and Marcel Ma preceded him in death. He was the proud grandfather of 27 and great-grandfather of 9.

He studied at Cass Tech and earned multiple skilled trade licenses as a boiler operator, electrician, refrigeration journeyman, elevator journeyman, and first-class stationary engineer. Marson worked tirelessly to support his large family by holding two full-time jobs for much of his adult life with notable stints at Public Lighting Commission (Detroit), Silvercup Bakery, Detroit Public Housing, Detroit DSR, Detroit Public Schools, and Chrysler Corporation.

He was very proud of his many years managing the power plants for Chrysler and HVAC centers for Detroit Public Schools. Marson retired at age 89 and spent the last 10+ years hosting many family reunion cruises. He enjoyed the companionship and happiness of his many children, grandchildren, and other relatives on these memorable family vacations.

He was a gifted handyman and enjoyed fixing his cars and repairing things around the home. His list of hobbies included leathercraft, tent camping, and model airplanes & boats. He had an adventurous spirit and explored many places around the world.

He will be remembered for his generosity, kindness, and perseverance in caring for his family and others during his century of life. May he rest in peace knowing that his memories will live on among all those he touched and helped along the way. 

Family and friends may visit the Schrader-Howell Funeral Home, 280 South Main Street, Plymouth on Saturday, August 31, 2024 from 9:30 A.M. until 11:00 A.M. 

A Private Funeral Service for family members only will be held.  Marson will be laid to rest at Resurrection Cemetery in Clinton Township, Michigan.

Donations in honor and memory of Marson Ma may be made to SE Asia Foundation online at: SE Asia Foundation or by mail with checks made payable to SE Asia Foundation and mailed to Bill Taylor, Founder, SE Asia Foundation, 9715 Cherry Street, Edmonds, Washington  98020 USA.

Contribution envelopes will be available at the Schrader-Howell Funeral Home.