Margaret Michanowicz

Margaret Mary Ann Michanowicz, 84, a devout Catholic , wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, friend, patriot , world traveller, music enthusiast, Irish jig and Polka master entered eternity on Jan 20, 2014 in Petoskey Michigan, surrounded by her family.
"Margi" was born of Hannah (Ross) and Alexander McDonald in Wyandotte Michigan on April 11, 1929. She was the second eldest of 11 kids: John, Shirley, Anne, Alex, Helen, Sharon, William, James, Robert, and Karen.
She showered her family and friends with generosity and selfless service, guided by her devout love for God. Her entire life was centred on her Catholic faith and family.
Margaret graduated from St. Patrick's High School in Wyandotte, Michigan where her passion to serve was cultivated. She was founder, author and editor of the school newspaper. She enjoyed writing poetry and was always interested in politics and historical events. At this time, she met and married the love of her life, CPL Arthur S. Michanowicz. She showed Arthur enormous support while he was deployed in the Korean War. The newlyweds wasted no time starting a family; making their mark in Wyandotte. They were blessed with 6 precious children.
Margaret worked at Wyandotte Electric and an accounting firm. In December, 1973, the family migrated to "God's country" in Ellsworth, Michigan. She began work at R.A Campbell Insurance Agency in East Jordan and planted seeds of faith with everyone she encountered. She also utilized her natural talents and resources via a catering service for weddings and other banquets.
She continued her proactive ambition in various churches, community and social organizations such as the "John Birch Society" and "Concerned Catholics." She was also active in the East Jordan Lioness Club where she earned an award as mother of the year.
She was also known for her many volunteer efforts such as entertaining and serving in local nursing homes. She worked as a finance manager in the Richard Friske election for state representative.
Margaret was renowned by all for her hospitality which was seen especially during the summers. She opened her home to visiting priests, families and at one point, Brazilian exchange students. She loved providing fall color tours to visitors, as she knew all the hidden treasures of Northern Michigan. She attended the wide variety of special events featuring her children and grandchildren with a schedule that was always very busy serving others. Hosting countless bonfires, banquets, sledding parties, song-filled car rides, and attending graduations, sporting events, family reunions, and military functions brought joy to her and all present.
A song bird, Margaret enjoyed music with which she enlivened the room wherever she went. She was eager to pass on this piece of her heritage with her family. She sang alto in every Catholic parish choir of which she was a member.
In the late 70's, her fervor to preserve Catholic tradition led her to cultivate catholic community, despite many challenges. This led to having Traditional Tridentine Latin masses offered in her home for a time until the number of faithful grew and erected a Catholic church. Her devotion to The Rosary was fundamental throughout her lifetime. Through these endeavors, she was introduced to her lifelong friends Sister Anthony Therese Pacek, Bishop Richard Williamson, among many priests and religious.
In accordance with Divine providence, she was instrumental in the design and founding of Sacred Heart Parish and School in Mancelona. She offered her passion, time, sweat, tears (and wallet) to set in motion a beacon of faith and the educational foundation that has been passed on to the next generation. As founder, coordinator, and Principal of Sacred Heart, she was devoted to the salvation of souls and bringing joy to everyone she met.
Margaret is survived by sisters, Shirley, Anne, Helen and Sharon, and brothers William and James. She is also survived by 6 beloved children: Robert, Susan, Michael, Richard, John and Mary. She leaves behind her precious 27 grandchildren and 29 great grand children, each of whom brought her immense joy. She was preceded in death by her parents Alex and Hannah, husband Arthur, and brothers John, Alec, Robert, sister Karen, and grandchild Nathan Daniel.
In honor of Margaret's love for the Requiem traditional Latin Mass, it will be celebrated at 2:00 pm on Friday January 24th at Sacred Heart Church on Valley Road in Mancelona with the Rev. Father David Gillilan as celebrant. A luncheon celebrating her life will follow in the church hall. Visitation will be Thursday January 23rd, from 4:00- 8:00 pm with the Rosary starting at 7:30 at Hastings Funeral Home in Ellsworth. Interment will follow at 2 pm on Saturday at Michigan Memorial Park in Flat Rock.
The family wishes to thank all friends, neighbors, relatives and clergy who have shown generosity and support now and during her rich and spirit-filled life. Her memory will forever be our "breath of fresh air."