Mary Graham Carpenter

Mary Graham Carpenter, 69 of Petoskey Michigan died June 1st, 2017 peacefully at her home in accordance with her wishes.  Mary was born June 12, 1947, to Leo and Evelyn Shields (Soudriette), in Detroit Michigan.  Mary grew up in Kalamazoo Michigan and attended the University of Colorado at Boulder and Western Michigan University, graduating with a degree in Journalism and Education.

Mary taught school, worked for Independent Elevator Company, the family business in Kalamazoo and was a successful real estate agent in the Petoskey/Harbor Springs area.

Mary was an accomplished quilter, giving back to her community, as well as winning awards and recognition over the years for many of the beautiful works of art she created.  She was also an avid dog lover whose pets were near and dear to her heart.

Over the years, in her father’s honor, Mary helped facilitate the long-term success of many young adults, through mentoring, emotional support and educational loan programs.  She was involved and present and made a difference in their lives.

Mary is preceded in death by her husband Ernest W. Carpenter III, MD.  She is survived by her brother Rick (Marjo) Shields and by those whom she kept close and whose lives are better as a result of knowing her.

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