Carolyn Sue Marcinkewciz's Obituary
Carolyn Sue Marcinkewciz, 84, of Big Rapids, passed away peacefully at her home on Saturday, March 15, 2025. She was born on February 23, 1941, in Flora, Illinois, the daughter of Howard and Genevieve (O’Boyle) Rice.
Carolyn attended Hersey School through the 11th grade before graduating from Reed City High School in 1958. She continued her education at Ferris Institute, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Business Education, and later obtained her Master’s degree from Central Michigan University. She married Tony Marcinkewciz while he was on leave from the Navy in 1960.
A dedicated educator, Carolyn’s teaching career included Barryton and Morley Stanwood High Schools before moving on to teach at several colleges. She later returned to Ferris State University, where she continued to inspire students until her retirement in 2001. Beyond teaching, she was a successful entrepreneur, operating her own tax service and managing Marcinkewciz & Marcinkewciz rental properties.
Carolyn was an active member of both St. Andrew’s and St. Peter’s Lutheran Churches for many years. She was also deeply involved in the Mecosta County Republican Party, working tirelessly alongside Tony in support of their community.
She is survived by her brother, Jack Rice of Edgerton, Wisconsin; her sister, Janice (Peter) Montague of Reed City; her grandchildren, Tony (fiancée Madyson) Marcinkewciz, Tyler (Annabella) Marcinkewciz, Gwen and Evan Marcinkewciz; and her infant great-grandson, John Clemens Marcinkewciz. She also leaves behind her daughters-in-law, Deb Marcinkewciz and Shelley Waldron; special friend, Bob Hayes; sister-in-law Rosalie Witbeck; many cherished nieces and nephews; and several dedicated caregivers.
Carolyn was preceded in death by her husband, Tony, her sons, John and Erick, and her sister-in-law, June Bloom.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Big Rapids. Carolyn’s family will greet friends from 4 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, at Mohnke Janowicz Funeral Home in Big Rapids, as well as one hour prior to the service on Wednesday at the church. She will be laid to rest next to Tony and her sons in Forest Hill Cemetery in Evart, MI.
Memorial contributions in Carolyn’s name may be made to St. Peter’s Lutheran School. Her kindness, dedication, and unwavering love for her family and community will be deeply missed by all who knew her.
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