Carol Elizabeth Antkowiak

Carol Elizabeth Antkowiak, 80, of Spruce passed away peacefully Saturday, July 8, 2023, at her home surrounded by her loving family.

Carol Elizabeth Ellery was born in Alpena on April 7, 1943, to the late Raphael and Mary (Minton) Ellery.  She graduated from Alpena Catholic Central in 1961 and joined the Felician Sisters in Livonia, where she taught school and graduated from Madonna University in 1968.  Moving back to Alpena she married Walter Antkowiak on July 11, 1970.  Carol taught kindergarten for Alpena Public Schools for many years until her retirement. Following her retirement, she worked for the District Health Department and also as a substitute teacher.  She was a member of St. Catherine Catholic Church, and active member of Knights of Columbus Ladies Auxiliary 6851, rang the bell for the Salvation Army and volunteered at Options Pregnancy.  When she was younger, she was a competitive horse rider receiving numerous awards, however, she will be remembered the most for being the most loving and caring wife, mother, and grandmother one could have.

Surviving are her husband, Walter; 5 children, Kenneth Antkowiak, Kristin Lucaroni, Keith (Deanna) Antkowiak, Kevin (Jessica) Antkowiak, Karen (Nick) Bengtson; 7 grandchildren, Darrin Lucaroni, Addison Antkowiak, Kyle Antkowiak, Jensen Antkowiak, Shiren Thapa, Hope Bengtson, Noah Bengtson; 2 brothers, Dale (Rita) Ellery, Robert (Carol) Ellery; brother-in-law, Ronald Standen; several niece and nephews.

Mrs. Antkowiak was preceded in death by a son-in-law, Darryl Lucaroni; 3 siblings, Eugene (Elaine) Ellery, Joyce Standen and Shirley (James) LaBarge.

Visitation will take place at St. Catherine Catholic Church on Wednesday from 10 a.m. until the time of Mass of Christian Burial at 12 noon with Rev. Basil Lek officiating.  Arrangements are being handled by the Bannan Funeral Home.

Interment: St. Catherine Cemetery

Memorials: Hospice of Michigan or Options Pregnancy