Kathleen F. Clarke, age 73 of Canton, Michigan and most recently Zephyrhills, Florida, passed away April 10, 2026. She was born May 19, 1952 in Detroit to William and Jeanne English.

Raised in a traditional Irish Catholic home, Kathleen was one of eight children. Her father was a firefighter for the city of Detroit, while her mother had plenty to take care of managing the household. Kathy was very close to all of her siblings and her extended family. She would often be at gatherings with her aunts, uncles, and cousins. Creating a very strong family bond that has carried on throughout the years. 

Kathleen graduated from St. Alphonsus High School and went on to Henry Ford Community College to study nursing. She began her nursing career after graduation and eventually found her home in the Emergency Department. Kathy later went on to obtain her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Madonna University to advance her career in Nursing. Her expertise eventually took her beyond the bedside as a consultant for FreemanWhite, where she used her vast knowledge of Emergency Department operations to help hospitals design functional, life saving spaces. She remained a respected voice in her field until her well earned retirement.

The most beautiful chapter of Kathy’s life began on a blind date arranged by her sister. It was there she met George, recently home from the Air Force. That spark led to a lifelong partnership, and the two were wed on September 20, 1974. Together, they built a vibrant life, eventually settling in Canton, Michigan.

Their home was a place filled with the laughter of their three children and the lively presence of the many dogs, birds, and fish they had throughout the years. Summer meant one thing to the Clarke family: camping. Kathy and George made it a priority to camp with their friends and family. This led them on adventures all over Michigan. Sitting around the campfire with her friends and family was Kathy’s happy place. 

Kathy truly shone when she was surrounded by those she loved. Her home in Canton was more than just a house; it was the designated meeting spot for the entire extended family. Whether it was a major holiday, a birthday, or a simple get together, Kathy was always ready to open her home, finding her greatest joy in a full house.

Of all the titles she held, none was more precious to her than "Gigi" (Gorgeous Grandma). She took immense pride in her grandchildren, often declaring that being their Gigi was her absolute favorite thing in the world.

In her final years, Kathy enjoyed the warmth of Zephyrhills, Florida. Though she moved toward the sun, her heart stayed true to her roots, she never missed a chance to cheer on her beloved Detroit Tigers and Red Wings.

Kathy leaves behind a legacy of "strong family bonds" that she spent a lifetime weaving together. Her warmth, her dedication to healing, and her fierce love for her family will be carried forward by the many siblings, cousins, children, and grandchildren who were lucky enough to call her their own.

Kathleen was the beloved wife of the late George. Loving mother of Maureen (Josh) Rychlicki, Kevin (Lesha) and Meghan (Tim) Wyrabkiewicz. Cherished grandmother of Vivian and Benjamin Rychlicki, Andrew, Jacob, Samuel and Selah Clarke, and Nora, Lenni and Leo Wyrabkiewicz. Dear sister of Eleanor (Chuck) Johnson, Jeannine (Bill) Lawitzke, William English, Robert (Vanessa) English, Irene English, James (Donna Queen) English and Christine (Alistair) Greig. Kathleen is also survived by many dear nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Visitation for Kathleen will be held on Friday, April 24th, from 2:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. with an evening Rosary Service, at McCabe Funeral Home, 851 N. Canton Center Rd., Canton. She will lie in state on Saturday, April 25th, at 10:30 a.m., until the time of her Funeral Mass at 11:00 a.m., at St. Joseph Catholic Parish, 830 S. Lafayette St., South Lyon. Following the Mass, Kathleen will be laid to rest in United Memorial Gardens, Plymouth.