Mardin Michael Lapienski

Mardin Michael Lapienski of Caro, age 71, passed away on Thursday, August 3, 2023 at his home, with his family by his side. Mardy was born April 8, 1952 in Detroit, the son of the late Charlie Lapienski and Clara Lapienski-Robbins. He graduated from Lake Fenton High School with the class of 1969. Following graduation, Mardy began working for U-Save Discount Store and became the district manager. It was at the U-Save in Caro he met the love of his life, the former Ann “Debbie” Chapelo. They were united in marriage on September 29, 1979, sharing nearly forty years of marriage and countless memories. Sadly, Debbie preceded Mardy in death on February 23, 2019. Together they owned and operated the KuKuKow Party Store in Caro, the Sun & Sand Motel and gift shop in Port Austin, Munchies in Bad Axe, and The Lunch Bucket in Elkton. Mardy held jobs at Frito Lay, Made Rite for fifteen years, and then opened his own Better Made distribution center in Caro – the largest in the area. After twelve years of distribution, he went on to open Postal Plus and had a portfolio of rental properties.

Throughout life, Mardy enjoyed listening to music, playing the guitar at bonfires, riding the tractor, and Friday night fish & chips. You could always count on him for a nice warm beverage from the back seat of one of his many vehicles. Moving on to the Cass River was a dream come true for Mardy; before the dam broke you could find him cruising on his jetboat until Debbie had enough and called him back home. Mardy had great compassion for all animals, wild or domestic, and a name for each one. Above all else, Mardy loved and was so proud of his family, they were his greatest treasure. He will be missed dearly by all who knew him.

Mardy leaves to carry on his legacy, his children, Charlie Lapienski, Theresa (Steve) Studer, Ashley (Ken) Janson, Nicalas (Deven) Lapienski, and Mitchel (Nicole) Lapienski; grandchildren, Dalton (fiancé, Catherine), Ashton, Tyler, Alex, Landen, and Logan; faithful and treasured companion, Package; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, MaryAnn Pratt, Donald Roth, Sandra Kay (Larry) Brooks, Helen "Hud" (Art) Randall, and John Wayne (Cathy) Chapelo; best friends, Terry Appleton and Eddie (Marion) Wiggins; several nieces, nephews, and friends. In addition to his parents and wife, Mardy was preceded in death by his son, Marty Clark.

Mardy’s funeral service will be held on Saturday, August 12, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. at Living Waters Chapel in Caro. The family will be present to receive visitors on Friday, August 11, 2023 from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at the Ransford Collon Funeral Home and again at church on Saturday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of his 11:00 a.m. service. On Saturday evening, the family will continue the Celebration of Mardy’s life at Arrowhead Golf & Country Club, details will be announced at the conclusion of the service. Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider memorial contributions to the Thumb Animal Shelter, 2260 S Elkton Rd, Elkton, Michigan 48731.