Florence Olivia Crachiola, age 94, passed away on August 19, 2024. She was born on March 15, 1930 in Detroit, Michigan to her dear parents, Joseph and Mary Racolta. Florence lost her loving husband of 45 years, Anthony Crachiola just last year. Florence raised five children: the late William Karpovich, the late George Karpovich, Kathy (Brian) Geering, Karen (Vic) Tomenello, and Jon (Peggy) Karpovich. She welcomed four additional children into the family when she married Anthony: Joe (Beth) Crachiola, Ronald Crachiola, Karen (Ken) Price and Ingrid (Dan) Register. Florence adored her many grandchildren: Lisa (Ron) Oleski, Kevin Karpovich, Tony (Jennifer) Crachiola, the late Ruth Crachiola, Gina Bartulio, Jacob Matrille, the late Joseph Tomenello, Kate Matrille, Rachel Ruffing, Mary (Will) Ramey, Sarah Karpovich, Bill Karpovich, Matthew Register, Aaron Register; and great-grandchildren: Ryan, Anna, Abby, Will, Joseph, Renee, Drew, Camille, Oliver, Stetson, Jackson, Lauren, Landyn, and Mia. Florence was preceded in death by her parents, and brothers George and Jack.
She worked for the Hazel Park School District and was a creative thinker who loved to read, do crosswords, crochet, enjoy musicals and travel. But, it was her sense of service that gave her the drive that has had a lasting impact on her family, friends, and an entire community. Her involvement in numerous initiatives included cub and girl scouts, chairman of the Hazel Park Community Fair, the Historical Society and chair of Michigan Week, the HP Promise Zone and campaign manager for various governmental positions. However, her most impactful endeavor was leading the Hazel Park Dance Teams to excellence, touching the lives of thousands who affectionately called her Mrs. C. Florence’s legacy will live on in the hearts and actions of so many.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association in Florence’s honor.
Visitation, Sunday, August 25, 2024 from 3:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at Kaul Funeral Home, 28433 Jefferson Ave., St. Clair Shores. Funeral Mass, Monday, August 26, 2024 at 11:30 a.m. (Instate 11:00 a.m.) at St. Peter Catholic Church, 95 Market St., Mt. Clemens. Entombment will follow at Cadillac Memorial Gardens East.
