Webster Township Woman's Sculptures Bring Joy to Residents

Cars passing by Mary Dee Heller’s farm near Zeeb and Joy roads in Webster Township resident may notice a new addition.

Using two hay barrels, a little black paint and some household products, Heller has immortalized the Dexter Bear as a way to greet passers-by.

“I’ve been making statues for 15 years just as something fun to do,” Heller said. “I like seeing people smile or honk and wave when they drive by. I know it’s something they look forward to.”

Heller, who serves as the township clerk, said she was first inspired to create the sculpture, which changes seasonally, for Halloween one year.

“I try to change the design for every holiday, weather permitting,” she said.

Her latest design before the bear was a snowman, which remained throughout the winter.

“I’ve done an apple for the beginning of the school year, a sunflower for spring and even the One-Eyed, One-Horned Flying Purple People Eater,” she said.

Heller said once she comes up with a concept, designing the sculpture is done in stages.

“The painting of the hay takes the longest,” she said. “For the Dexter Bear, I went through eight cans of spray paint. I look for things around the farm that I can use so I don’t have to spend a lot of money on it.”

Designs are also at the mercy of her husband, who moves the hay barrels in place with his tractor and donates any hay he doesn’t sell for Heller to use for her projects.

“My husband is very patient. These sculptures are definitely a joint effort. I couldn’t do it without him.”

In recent years, Heller said, the sculptures have gotten so popular that she has received requests from friends and neighbors.

“I did a bride and groom for a wedding one year, a birthday cake and a tractor,” she said. “Sometimes I design a sculpture if there is a popular movie out, like Kung Fu Panda. I’d like to do Shrek, but I don’t know how I’d pull that off.”

Since she uses only round hay barrels, design concepts can prove difficult.

“Kids have been asking me for a horse, but I don’t know how that would work,” Heller said.

Once the Dexter Bear popularity dies down, Heller said she will begin working on her next project.

“They are fun to do. I get so many letters in the mail from folks expressing appreciation for the sculptures. I think it’s a joy for us to make someone’s day, more than anything else.”