Isabel Van Alstine, age 99 of Canton, passed away on February 13, 2023. She was born on September 12th, 1923 to Flora Lee and Elmer Rogers in Esther, Missouri.

In 1934, her family moved to Detroit, Michigan during the Great Depression seeking work and better opportunities. Growing up during that time instilled in her the strong work ethic that she would carry on throughout her life. Isabel started working at 16 years old and would work up to 40 hours a week while going to high school full time. She attended and graduated from Redford High School in 1941. That summer, Isabel met James Van Alstine at a local dance. It wasn’t long before the couple wed in November 1941. They lived in several different areas in Michigan before settling in Redford Township, Michigan where they lived for 18 years.

Isabel was one of the real-life "Rosie the Riveters" working at GM Diesel while James was drafted during the war. Upon his return, the couple started their own business, Garden City Tool. Isabel was a working Mom, very unusual during the 1950’s. She worked each day handling multiple tasks, bookkeeping, ordering and if required, working on machines. Her work didn’t end there. She would go home to prepare dinner and any other necessary household duties. Isabel continued running the business for 12 years after James suffered a series of heart attacks. She sold the business in 1994.

Isabel’s most important job was supporting her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. She wanted all to have an opportunity for an education that would lead to employment to ensure independence.

Isabel was the beloved wife of the late James for 54 years. Loving mother of Wayne Van Alstine, Linda Pavlik, and the late Judith Ann Clark. Proud grandmother of Susan (Steve) Dolack, Chris (Andrea) Spangler, John (Erica) Pavlik, Jr., and the late James Clark and great-grandmother of five great-grandchildren. Dearest sister of the late Norman, Charles, and Grant Rogers.

A Memorial Visitation for Mrs. Van Alstine will be held Friday, February 17th, from 11:00 a.m. until the time of her Memorial Service at 12:00 p.m. at McCabe Funeral Home, 851 N. Canton Center Rd., Canton. She will be laid to rest with her husband, James Van Alstine, in Great Lakes National Cemetery, Holly.