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Grace McCalla Obituary
Age 64, died Sunday, November 20, 2011 in St. Johns, MI after a short illness with her family by her side. She was born December 14, 1946 in Jackson, MI, the daughter of Robert E. and Maxine L. (DeVerna) Kushmaul. Grace was a 1965 graduate of Chelsea High School. She started her career at Chelsea Retirement Community, which led to her current position at Bucknar Retirement Services in Texas. She was a member of Grace Bible Church of Elyria, OH, and a former member of Chelsea Kiwanis. She loved to bake, but her favorite past time was spoiling her grandkids. She is survived by her mother, Maxine Kushmaul; two sons, Nicholas (Jennifer) McCalla of Howell and Case (Amy) McCalla of Grass Lake; her brother, Bill (Kathy) Kushmaul of St. Johns; four grandchildren, Emily, Megan, Will, Alyssa McCalla; a niece, Roxanne (Dave) Kudwa; and a nephew, Robert Kushmaul. She was preceded in death by her father, Robert E. Kushmaul, Sr., and a brother, Robert E. Kushmaul, Jr. A memorial service will be held Wednesday, November 23, 1:00 p.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea, with the Reverend Jason Boyer officiating. The family will receive friends Tuesday, November 22, from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m. and Wednesday from noon until the funeral. A private burial will take place at Oak Grove Cemetery, Chelsea. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society or Sparrow Hospice.
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Memories and Condolences
for Grace McCalla
Bill Hull
November 19, 2024
Grace believed in me and got me started in my career in Senior Living Sales. She was a loyal leader and a true lady who had class and professionalism. She took a chance on me and after nearly 25 years in our industry, I am happy to have had the opportunity to enjoy some significant achievements at several CCRC's around the country. Thanks, Grace. You will never be forgotten.
December 28, 2011
I just learned of Grace's passing today from a mutual friend. I am so sorry and I will miss her dearly. I had the privilage of having Grace live with me one summer between moving from Indiana to Virginia. It is a time I will never forget. She was such a joy to be around. We did a 25 mile night bike ride in Indy that was a blast. I could always pick up the phone or e-mail her and we chatted like we were never apart. I am so sad for her sons and grandchildren she loved you all dearly. I will keep you all in my prayers.
Julie Ellefson
December 14, 2011
I am so sorry to hear about Grace's death. She was such a good, fun, warm and strong person. I will dearly miss her. My condolences to her boys and family. Julie ellefson (Houston, Texas)
Lisa Schalon
December 2, 2011
I was just looking for Grace on FB and was shocked and saddened to see this news. Grace was a dear friend, mentor and confidant over the years. I have fond memories of working together at SME in Dearborn MI back in the 80's, and chopping down Christmas trees with her (then) young boys in Chelsea. As our careers and lives took different paths, the time and distance would melt away when we connected for long phone conversations; and when she visited me in California. Her bright smile, compassion and quick wit will always be in my heart; and her family is in my prayers.
Chris (Taylor) Cadreau
December 1, 2011
Thoughts and prayers to Kushmauls and McCalla boys...lots of fun and laughs over the years at CHS and ol' Chelsea-town. She blessed many.
Carol McMenamy
November 29, 2011
Gracie was a valued friend. We worked out at the same place, saw "Wicked" and had lunch and dinners together. I was one of those nuts who jumped out of a "perfectly good" airplane in Houston. She was one of a kind and I will greatly miss her.
Shannon Cavers
November 28, 2011
I am so sorry to learn of Grace's passing and only recently learned of it. She helped our family so much when it was time to move my grandmother to Parkway Place. In fact, my grandmother passed the day before she was to move in. This was a horribly difficult time for us and Grace made it as easy as possible. I will miss Grace's compassion, caring, smile and professionalism. Our prayers are with your family.
Best regards,
Shannon Cavers
Cheryl & Sam Vogel
November 28, 2011
So sorry to hear about Grace. We are in FL and unable to make the visitation. Our thoughts and prayers are with the whole family.
Dave Taylor
November 25, 2011
My heart goes out to all of you in Grace's passing . She put up such a great fight during the last year and had us convinced she will beat this . Was out of State and sorry to miss the visitation. Her life was her family and I have many pictures of the grandkids that she loved so much. If I could be of any help in the future , I would welcome that . And Bill , if you could give me a call when things settle down it would be appreciated . 734 2163075
November 24, 2011
What a surprise to hear of Grace's untimely passing. I have fond memories of spending a summer as nanny for Nick & Case and then later working with Grace at BookCrafters. I always admired her organizational skills with working outside of the home and running such an efficient household.
May your wonderful memories of her sustain you during this difficult time and we pray that you will feel God's comforting love as well.
Trent & Barb Satterthwaite
Kay & Earl Heller
November 23, 2011
My heart and prayers are with all who knew and loved Grace, especially her family. Earl and I are in Traverse City for the holiday - so sorry to have missed visitation. Such fond members of Grace; from 4-H when we were both young, to raising boys as well as sharing experiences at retirement communities. The world, as well as my life, has been blessed by knowing Grace. We share your loss.
Ryan Fisher
November 23, 2011
My deepest sympathy to you and your family. As a child growing up next door, your mother was so caring and created some great memories. To this day, I remember her warm chocolate chip cookies. What a wonderful person, she provided so many memories that will last forever.
Kathy (Stoll) Chmielewski
November 23, 2011
Maxine, Nick, Case and families,
I was so sad to hear about Grace. My heart goes out to all of you. Grace was such a beautiful person, in so many ways. May all your wonderful memories help comfort you at this difficult time.
David Priest
November 23, 2011
I am blessed to have known Grace. I remember her as a sweet young lady with a heart warming smile. My condolences to her family.
Margaret Hafner
November 23, 2011
My thoughts and prayers are with Grace's family. I have very fond memories of working with Grace at BookCrafters in Chelsea. She was an inspiration to all of us. May God bless Grace and her family.
Janice Perry
November 22, 2011
My thoughts and prayers are with Grace's family. I have many happy memories of Grace during our days at CHS and we shared birthdays one day apart. Sincerely, Janice (Wood) Perry
Joyce Mshar/Shaninger
November 22, 2011
May God bless you and your family during this sad time.
Jean Tanner
November 22, 2011
My life is richer for having known her, even as it's emptier now without her. She was a true friend.
Bill Hull
November 22, 2011
Grace began as my boss and became my friend. She was always funny, fair, and generous. She was respectful to my Dad despite his Alzheimers and always asked about my kids. We shared many hours of deep conversation and she was always willing to help out. We remained friends even after our paths led us to different parts of the country. We believed in each other, and I always knew she had my back. I will miss her.
Suzanne Liebeck-Krohn
November 22, 2011
Many good memories of Grace, my prayers are with the family....
Steve Harris
November 22, 2011
Thoughts & prayers for the Kushmaul family.
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