Mary Frances McCardel

Mary F. McCardel passed away on August 8, 2025, surrounded by her family. Born in Lansing on June 23, 1941, she was the daughter of Francis Pappin and Ardythe Pappin. She is predeceased by her husband, David. She is survived by her sons, Dr. Brian (Elaine) McCardel, David (Dr. Kate) McCardel, and Sean McCardel, as well as her daughter, Michele McCardel. She is also survived by her grandsons, Barry, Nick, Nathan, Dylan, David, and Danny, and her granddaughter, Carlee.

Born June 23, 1941, she grew up in downtown Lansing, attending St. Mary’s High School both as a student and a parishioner, and was subsequently married there by Bishop Murray. She and David would attend Mass regularly at St. Mary’s Cathedral, as it felt like home to them.

Her life revolved around her husband, her kids, and her friends. Mary was a bright and generous person, a supportive and industrious wife, and the most loyal of friends, and will be dearly missed by her family and friends alike. All who knew her are blessed with fond memories and a wonderful example.

She took on challenges that others never would have. After her academic life was cut short by starting a family, she returned to MSU to get her degree. She graduated the same year that Brian graduated from UM, and David graduated from Lansing Catholic Central. She was so proud of her degree. When she decided to stop smoking, she didn’t just stop; she took up running and became an avid (and occasionally competitive) runner. Her biggest competition was racing David down the long driveway at the cottage.

Mary was involved with Color Me Beautiful, and her business was very successful. She appeared on the Phil Donahue show. She also volunteered at Haven House, where she got a bus and took the kids to Payless Shoes. She told them they could pick out any shoes and socks they wanted. She also served as president of the Women’s Guild and was involved with the Junior League.

And she loved to laugh. Our memories are full of that beautiful smile and her infectious laugh. Her fellow merrymakers included her Lunch-Bunch group, her Bible Study group, and the even larger group of friends who were drawn to her kindness and her love of laughter.

She and David loved to host, particularly at the cottage. Yet it was also a place of quiet and reflection. She loved going up to the “apartment” after dinner to read. And while she loved the cottage, she loved to travel, something that she got to do more and more as time went on. It was a real treat for both her and David. She lost her favorite travel companion when he died in 2005. She would regularly point out how much fun they had, and how lucky she was to have been able to see the world with him.

She loved her grandchildren. On rainy days at the cottage, she would set up an arts and crafts table so the kids could spend the day painting rocks or pictures. The family would like to thank all the friends and family who have been so supportive during her final years. We would also like to thank the staff at Provision Assisted Living and Memory Care Facility and Corso Care. We were all struck by the kind, respectful, and gentle care that she received.

Visitation will be at Gorsline Runciman Funeral Home located at 900 E. Michigan Avenue in Lansing, on Monday, August 18th, from 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Funeral services will be held at St. Mary’s Cathedral, located at 219 Seymour Avenue in Lansing, on Tuesday, August 19th, at 10:00 a.m. Immediately following the Mass, a reception will be held at the Country Club of Lansing. Burial will take place in Charlevoix, where David is interred, at a later date.