Mary Ellen Karcis

Mary Ellen Karcis (nee Boyle), age 96, died peacefully on November 8, 2025.

She was born on December 14, 1928, to Nell and Joseph Boyle in Rochester, New York where she also grew up. She attended the University of Michigan where she met her soon-to-be husband, John Karcis. Upon graduating with a degree in library science in 1951, she joined John in Detroit. After marrying in December of 1951, they both worked until starting their family. In 1962, the family moved to Grand Rapids so John could pursue a promotional opportunity. In the late 1960's, Mary Ellen earned a master's degree in library science from the University of Michigan. When John became self-employed in 1969, Mary Ellen took care of the books for the business until John retired in 1992.

Mary Ellen and John traveled to many places around the world enjoying visits to Hong Kong, China, Brazil, and Europe. They also enjoyed winters in Port Charlotte, Florida, where they made many friends during their almost 20 years there. Mary Ellen enjoyed playing cards, and one could frequently find her reading a good murder mystery or two.

Mary Ellen is survived by her children, Amy Karcis, Julie Karcis and Jim Seward, Dave and Mary Karcis, and Mary Kay and Keith Hopkins in addition to eight grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her two sisters, Judy Zicari of New York and Elizabeth Owens of Massachusetts.

Cremation has taken place. There will not be a public memorial service.

The family would like to thank the staff at Porter Hills who looked after Mary Ellen for the past several years. Their great care and kindness helped her through last years of her life.

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