Maureen Mathews Harding

Maureen Mathews Harding, born on October 24, 1939 in Detroit, Michigan, passed away suddenly at home in the company of her husband Leonard Joseph Harding on February 22, 2016. Maureen was a woman of many dimensions – wife, mother, friend, teacher, partner in crime, inspiration, motivation, voice of reason, volunteer, employee, and many others – she will be missed terribly.

Maureen was the daughter of Eleanor Blum and Russell Mathews and sister of Michael Mathews. She was wife to Leonard Joseph Harding and mother to Kevin (Beth) and Katherine. She was Moppy (and the biggest fan) to four grandchildren – Nicole Hodge (Blake), Joseph Weindorf, Kayla Harding, and Ethan Harding. Maureen is survived by her brother and immediate family.

Maureen graduated from The University of Michigan with a BA and MA in English Language and Literature, following in her mother’s footsteps. In 1975 she joined Vector Research, Inc. where she made many wonderful and lasting friendships. Maureen was in construction management at Bechtel Power Corporation for many years and then joined Phoenix Contractors, Inc. where she was a Vice President. She retired from Phoenix Contractors, Inc., but did not slow down in retirement! She became an active volunteer for the Riverside Arts Center and a fitness instructor at the local YMCA. Maureen was a vital supporter of the arts and theater community in Ypsilanti and was devoted to the success of Riverside. Maureen received numerous exercise certifications and was passionate about sharing what she knew to improve the health and wellness of seniors, ensuring they had a safe yet effective exercise program. She was just as passionate about advocating for cancer survivors, helping them see the benefits of exercise in their recovery, through the Livestrong program at the Ann Arbor YMCA.

With all that, Maureen could be counted on to always be in the stands, dressed in the school colors and giving out a cheer at her grandchildren’s sporting events – Nicky’s ice hockey, Joe’s soccer, Kayla’s field hockey, and Ethan’s lacrosse.

We will gather to celebrate Maureen’s life with a wake at Conor O'Neill's, Celtic Room (318 S Main St, Ann Arbor, MI 48104) on Saturday, February 27th from 2pm - 5pm. We ask that in lieu of flowers you honor Maureen by considering a donation to the Riverside Arts Center or the Ann Arbor YMCA.