Marje was born in Detroit the youngest of 5 living children. She is the
proud descendant of a multi ethnic heritage, which includes Scotch,
Pottawatami Indian, Saponi Indian and Pennsylvania Dutch.
She
resided in mid-town Detroit most of her life, having attended Northern
High School and graduating at the age of seventeen.
As a result of an arrangement between her mother and a suitor by the
name of John Ollivierra, she was married shortly after graduation. The
marriage lasted 10 years during which Marje had 3 children, two
daughters and a son.
Her continuing education actually began in High School when she received
training as a Dental Hygienist. Following High School she attained a
degree form the Mary Baldwin Business College and later she worked at
the East Side Medical Lab and became a Certified Lab Technician. Her
final degree came as a result of training when she became a Registered
Nurse.
She soon found employment as a Medical Assistant and worked for several
Doctors in the Detroit area. Later she worked for the Family
Neighborhood Services Agency where she was hired as a secretary, and
because of her business and nursing background she became an assistant
to the director.
Marje ultimately found her career moving to BCBSM. She joined the Blues
in 1971. She was initially assigned to offices in the Cadillac Tower and
shortly thereafter moved to the Lafayette building. Where she was
involved principally in customer services until she retired.
Marje has been involved in many interesting activities over the years.
She is a member of the Detroit Genealogical Society and has been able to
trace many aspects of her multi-ethnic background also know a METIS. She
is especially proud of her father, Warren Richardson, who had an
outstanding career as a Detroit Police Officer. He was hired in the
early 1900’s as only the 3rd colored police officer joining the force at
that time He rose through the ranks reaching detective status and
receiving a special commission from Governor Groesbeck.
One would think she would be more than ready to sit back and enjoy her
retirement in a rocking chair without concern for timely commitment, but
no, not this lady. She apparently enjoys involvement in many endeavors.
For example here are just a few of her interests:
- A respected artist specializing in pencil and oils.
- With her daughter she designs and constructs jewelry.
- Teaches and actively refinishes and restores antique furniture.
- Has been involved in producing musicals and fashion shows.
- Became a Nationally Certified Massage Therapist through her daughters
training.
- Is a member of ETA PHI BETA a women’s business sorority.
She remains an active member of St. Matthews Episcopal Church where she
also sings in the choir. She is truly a delightful and multi talented
lady and it was a pleasure to meet her. Thanks Dick for suggesting this
profile.
