Carol was born in Allegan, Michigan in 1960 to Irene and Edward Pelka. She was married to Lyle Whitney on September 13, 1986 in Grand Rapids. She graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting and Information Systems from Eastern Michigan University. She worked in the accounting field from high school to the time of her passing, and enjoyed every moment. She began her career at United Bank of Michigan in Wayland and worked a few other jobs until finding a special place as treasurer of Webster Township. She took great pleasure in her perfectly-balanced accounts and would always express her excitement over being able to work with numbers all day. She volunteered her time and skills for many years as treasurer of Webster United Church of Christ. All her life, she was active in her local churches and had a passion for ecumenical services because of the unity they embodied. She loved walking along paths and throughout parks with her friends and family. She is especially remembered as being positive, joyful, nurturing and organized by those closest to her.
After a two and a half year battle with ovarian cancer, which she handled with resolute grace, Carol is remembered by her husband of 32 years, Lyle Whitney, her children Jennifer and Stephen (Molly) Whitney. She is preceded in death by her father Edward Pelka, and survived by her mother Irene Pelka, her siblings Ron (Betty) and Don Pelka and Monica (Mike) Tyler. She is also remembered by her sister-in-laws Lynne (Merri) and Nancy Whitney and her brother-in-law John (Donna) Whitney and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews and other family members.
The memorial service will be held at Webster United Church of Christ (5484 Webster Church Rd. Dexter, MI) on Friday, August 23 at 11am. There will be a visitation at Hosmer-Muehlig Funeral Home (3410 Broad St. Dexter, MI) on Thursday, August 22 from 5-7pm. There will also be a visitation at Webster United Church of Christ from 9-11am. A reception will follow the funeral service at Webster Township Hall (5665 Webster Church Rd. Dexter, MI).
Please send donations in lieu of flowers to Webster United Church of Christ (5484 Webster Church Rd. Dexter, MI 48130).
