We are saddened to share the passing of Carol Marie Puchacz, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, who left this world peacefully at the age of 73, on Tuesday, April 7, 2026. Carol was born on February 10, 1953, in Owosso, Michigan, the daughter of the late Gilbert and Mary (Koviak) Sutter. Carol was known for her intelligence, selflessness, strong will, humility, and compassion.
Carol attended school at Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Chesaning, Michigan. After graduation, she embarked on her early career at Aetna Insurance, putting her talent for mathematics to work. Later, she was able to take on her most beloved role as a dedicated stay-at-home mom. This was a title she embraced wholeheartedly, nurturing her children with love, guidance, and unwavering support. Her talent for sewing blossomed into a remarkable freelance seamstress career, where her precision and attention to detail resulted in beautiful work enjoyed by many.
While attending a concert, she met her future husband, John Puchacz. That moment would spark a lifetime of love and laughter. They celebrated over 47 years of joy and togetherness, building a cherished family along the way. Carol and John formed a beautiful relationship filled with great memories that came from attending concert events, thrilling nights at hockey games, and performing arts events.
Family meant everything to Carol. She took immense joy in attending her children's and grandchildren's sporting and school events, always cheering them on with pride. Her free time was often spent enjoying crosswords, puzzles, bowling, biking, walking, and enjoying vacations with her family. As a strong and steadfast presence in her family, she was a great listener, offering wisdom and support to those she loved. Her laughter and witty comments brightened the lives of many. Carol will be remembered for her warmth, curiosity, and the joy she found in life's simple pleasures. Carol was a fan of music and was a tried-and-true Detroit Lions fan. She cherished time spent alongside her children and grandchildren, creating lasting memories filled with laughter and teamwork.
Her Catholic faith was foundational in her life, and she spent her final days in prayer, a testament to her unwavering devotion. She was a faithful parishioner of Holy Spirit Catholic Church in Saginaw, Michigan. Within, she found great joy in the connections and community she encountered.
Carol will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by her devoted husband, John; children, Zachary, Colette (Christian) Arntson, and Nicholas (Emily Sneller); grandchildren, Helaina, CJ, and Mia Arntson; siblings, Ron (Gloria) Sutter, Larry (Cheryl) Sutter, and Tom (Marian) Sutter; sisters-in-law, Lori (Dan) Daly and Angelique Puchacz, along with many nieces, nephews, and cousins. Along with her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother-in-law, Stanley Puchacz.
Carol's family will be present to receive visitors on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, from 3:00 PM until her 6:00 PM Vigil at Skorupski Family Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 1550 Midland Rd., between State & Gratiot. On Wednesday, April 15, 2026, visiting will continue from 9:00 AM until her 10:00 AM Funeral Mass at Holy Spirit Church, 1035 N. River Rd., Saginaw. Fr. Peter Gaspeny to preside. The Rite of Committal will be held in St. Andrew Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to the wishes of the family.
The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the staff at the University of Michigan Health in Ann Arbor, Michigan for outstanding care and compassion given to Carol and the family.