Elizabeth was born on August 22, 1946, in Rochester, New York, to Edward and Catherine Carpenter. Her early years were spent moving frequently, but by her teens, her family had settled in southeastern Michigan. She attended St. Gertrude High School in St. Clair Shores. During that time, she met the love of her life, Michael McHale. They married in April 1964, undeterred by their youth and the doubts of others. Together, they built a strong and lasting partnership that spanned 48 years—a source of deep pride for Elizabeth.
A woman of remarkable energy and dedication, Elizabeth began her career at Michigan Bell as an entry-level technician. Over 25 years, she rose through the ranks into management and engineering roles, demonstrating both technical skill and perseverance. While working full-time and raising a family, she also pursued higher education, earning a bachelor’s degree in 1991. After leaving Bell, she continued her education and earned an MSW. This achievement led her to a second career as a social worker in therapy and counseling, where she served individuals and families for nearly 15 years.
Elizabeth was a devoted member of St. Lawrence Parish in Utica, actively volunteering in many capacities. In her personal time, she found joy in traveling with her husband, spending time with family, bowling, sewing, cooking, gardening, and reading. Her strength, compassion, determination, and humor touched the lives of many and will be lovingly remembered by all who knew her.
Elizabeth is survived by her children, Michael McHale (Linda) and Marie Kazmierczak (Arthur); her grandchildren, Andrew (Stephanie), Jillian (Conor), Jessica, Brooke, and Jacqueline; her beloved beagle Maggie Mae; and many cousins, nieces, nephews, and in-laws. She is preceded in death by her husband Michael (2012), as well as her parents, brother Edward Carpenter and sister Estelle Strong.
A visitation will be held on Friday, August 29, 2025 from 3-8 PM, with a rosary service at 7 PM at Resurrection Funeral Home, 40800 Hayes Road, Clinton Twp, Michigan 48038. On Saturday, August 30, 2025 an instate gathering will begin at 9:30 AM and go until time of funeral mass at 10 AM at St. Lawrence Catholic Church, 44633 Utica Road, Utica Michigan 48317. A graveside committal service will follow immediately after at Resurrection Cemetery in Clinton Township, Michigan.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be directed to the ASPCA (link below).
