Jean L. Viau

She was born on January 24, 1947 in Escanaba, daughter to Marlin “Red” and Helen “Honey” (Curran) Williams. Jean was raised in Escanaba and attended Holy Name School and then graduated from Escanaba High School, class of 1965.

On October 19, 1968, Jean married William C. Viau at St. Joseph Catholic Church. Bill and Jean were blessed with two children and 51 years of marriage before he passed away on January 25, 2020.

While raising her children, Jean worked for several families over the years as their housekeeper.

Jean and Bill were outdoors enthusiasts and enjoyed camping with their family. Bill spent many hours gardening and Jean enjoyed canning and preserving the fruits of their labor. Both were longtime Green Bay Packers fans and enjoyed watching each game. Jean also loved horses and was a fan of the Kentucky Derby and similar races. Both Jean and Bill were animal lovers and had an incredible fondness for their cats.

Survivors include her two children, Robert (Sherri) Viau of Bark River and Jolene (Kieran) Murray of Ireland; and grandchildren, Delaney Viau of Detroit, Gabriel Viau of Bark River, and Hannah Murray of Ireland.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by sisters, Joan Williams and Sharon (William) McGlynn; and grandson, Lochlann Murray.

Visitation will be on Friday, December 12th from 2 p.m. – 3 p.m. at the Crawford Funeral Home, 302 S. 13th St., Escanaba. Funeral service will follow at 3 p.m. with Rev. Timothy Ferguson officiating.

Inurnment will take place in the Gardens of Rest Mausoleum at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Delta Animal Shelter, 6975 County 426 M.5 Road, Escanaba, MI 49829.

Messages of condolence may be directed to the family by visiting www.crawfordfuneralhomes.net The Crawford Funeral Homes are assisting the family.