Mary E. (Carolan) Couturier, known to her friends and family as Betty, was born in Lowell Massachusetts, the daughter of Edward and Elizabeth Carolan. She graduated from Lowell High School class of ’44 and the Bradshaw Business College in ’45. She worked as the Office Manager at the D.T. Sullivan Coal Company in Lowell before meeting and marrying Donald, the man who would be at her side for the next 68 years. Betty moved to Don’s hometown of Detroit Michigan in 1954 and soon after, established their home and family in East Detroit for the next 47 years.
She was a member of St Angela’s Parish in Roseville Michigan, where she volunteered with many youth groups at St Angela Church and School but her real passion was working with the Boy Scouts of America. She volunteered with the Michigami District of the BSA for 42 years including Cub Scout Pack 1452, Boy Scout Troop 1412, District Commissioner, Membership Chairman, and Training Chairman. She received many awards including District Award of Merit, Silver Beaver, St George and Ed Crowe Awards. Following her Troop work, she spent 15 years working in the Detroit Area Council Registration Office of the BSA before retiring.
She enjoyed scouting, music, knitting, camping and traveling. She was a member of the Woodall Tour Group and with that group, took “the trip of their lifetime” to Alaska. They also traveled internationally with several of their very close friends. She never lost her love for her Irish traditions, New England and the ocean; she visited often to re-connect with family and classmates. In addition to having six children in the house – there was always room for a pup.
Betty is pre-deceased by her beloved husband Don; her faithful companion through the many good years and her steadfast caretaker, protector and guiding light until the end.
Betty is survived by her 6 children: Kathleen (Edward) Papes, Doreen (Michael) Cricelli, Edward, Phillip (Tami), Paul (Julie), James (Brenda), her 13 Grandchildren: Stacy (Matthew) Wallach, Matthew (Humayra) Papes, Sean Papes, Todd Cricelli, Ryan (Sarah) Cricelli, Caitlyn Cricelli, Melissa Gaudette, Joshua Gaudette, Casey Couturier, Sydney Couturier, Jacquelyn Couturier, Brooklyn Couturier and Dylan Couturier, and 4 Great grandchildren: Dylan Wallach, Connor Wallach, Avery Cricelli and Cameron Cricelli.
She is also survived by Sisters- in-Law Agnes Carolan- wife of Brother Francis and Ruth (Couturier) Hayes, and many nieces and nephews
Funeral Services will be held at:
St Mary’s of the Hills Catholic Church
An instate for Mary will be held Wednesday, September 21, 2022 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, followed by a funeral mass at 11:00 AM.
Burial Service at Resurrection Cemetery and Luncheon at Fern Hill Golf Club immediately following.
In lieu of flowers or gifts please make donations to Alzheimer’s or Parkinson research.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.pixleyfh.com for the Couturier family.
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