Constance Marie McGowan

Constance Marie McGowan (Hare) passed away peacefully on September 11, 2026, at StoryPoint at Abbot Park in East Lansing, Michigan. Connie was born on December 10, 1939, to the late James Delmar Hare and Shiloh Carscadden (Felix).

Connie was married to her beloved husband, Kenneth McGowan, for more than 62 years before his passing in 2023. Together they built a life, a home and a family that meant everything to her. Connie and Ken lived in their Pinckney home for more than 60 years.

Connie attended Waterford Public Schools and was a hard worker her entire life. When she wasn't busy raising her family and managing her home, she held many different jobs, including working as a Michigan Bell telephone operator. Her last job was as a clerk for Pinckney Township.

Connie kept busy and enjoyed trying all sorts of things. She played on a women's softball team and a bowling team, learned to play guitar, enjoyed Sunday night bingo and trips to the casino, and loved crocheting, sewing and reading cookbooks. She could sing beautifully and played the piano. And if the mood struck her, she would bring out the old accordion and play a few tunes. There was never quite telling what Connie might decide to do next.

She was also a wonderful cook, although she would be the first to tell you that she didn't particularly enjoy cooking. Somehow, that never stopped her from putting an amazing meal on the table. In Connie's house, you were going to be fed—and probably fed again before you left.

Connie is survived by her two daughters, Tammy Robison, whose husband Jonathon predeceased her, and Tracey Wirth and her husband Jim. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Donnie Flannery; Kaitlin Garske (Steven); Callan Robison; Kenny Wirth (Anna Richardson); and Will Wirth.

She was a sister to Tim Hare, who predeceased her in 1974; Hugh Carscadden (Delores); Carolyn Lechack (Ron); Candy Woomer; and Jim Carscadden. She was also a much-loved sister-in-law, aunt, cousin and friend to many wonderful people.

Among those special friends was Joann, her rock and a truly faithful friend who was always there for Connie. Joann's friendship and unwavering presence meant so much to our mom and to our family. We will always be grateful for the love, kindness and companionship she gave to Connie.

Connie was one of a kind. She was strong, hardworking and fiercely devoted to her family. She had a way of making sure the people she loved were taken care of, whether that meant a big hug, a home-cooked meal, a little advice—or making sure you didn't leave her house hungry.

She didn't always need to say "I love you" because she showed it. She showed it in the meals she made, the things she did for her family, the hugs she gave, and simply by being there.

She had a full life, a big personality and a lot of stories. She was our mom, our grandma, our sister, our aunt and our friend. We will miss her laughter, her music, her hugs, her cooking, and all of the little things that made her Connie.

We love you, Mom. You will be forever missed and forever loved.

A Memorial Gathering will be held from 1:00-4:00 pm Saturday, October 24, 2026, at Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes, 1730 East Grand River Ave, East Lansing, followed by a Time of Sharing at 4:00 pm.