Kathleen Darrow

Katie Darrow of Mackinaw City, 79, passed away on June 11th, 2022 surrounded by her family at the Hospice House of Cheboygan. Katie was born on January 10th, 1943 in Detroit, Michigan and was raised by her parents, Max and Irene Hoolihan in Lake Orion. Moving to Mackinaw City for a summer job at Downing's Restaurant, while in college at Western Michigan University, she then met her husband, Perry. The two of them married in 1964 and had two children, Darby and Cindy.

Katie spent 26 years with the Mackinac State Historic Parks where she was the first craft demonstrator at Colonial Michilimackinac, held several roles within the Fort Visitor's Center, and served as the group tour and special events coordinator for many years. After retiring from MSHP, Katie continued to help manage the business her husband started in 1968 alongside her son Darby, Darrow Brothers Excavating as well as living out a phrase she held as a personal mantra, "Cherish the Journey." This belief led Katie to spend her free time traveling the world and dedicate her time at home in Mackinaw to giving back to the community. Katie served on the Citizens National Bank Board of Directors for 18 years, was a board member of the Straits Area Community Foundation, Cheboygan Memorial Hospital Development Council, and United Way. Katie was also a member of the Order of the Eastern Star and a local Cub Scout leader.

All who knew Katie knew the pride and joy her grandchildren brought to her. Rarely would a visit end without a story of at least one of their latest accomplishments or adventures. Her family was blessed to spend time making memories with her, attending youth sports and activities, taking trips, visiting her during winters in Florida, and staying with her while visiting Mackinaw City as adults.

Nothing was more important to Katie than her family and friends who will all remember her endless love and adventurous spirit. She is survived by her son Darby (Mary) Darrow, grandchildren Dylan (Ashley), Elizabeth (Jake) Landuyt, Kaitlin, and Violet, sister Sherry (the late Carl) Cascadden, and brother Mike Hoolihan.

Katie was preceded in death by her husband Perry, daughter Cindy, and parents Max and Irene Hoolihan.

Funeral services for Katie will be held at Church of the Straits in Mackinaw City on Friday, June 17th. Visitation will begin at 9:00 am, followed by the service at 11:00 am with burial to immediately follow at Lakeview Cemetery. Pastor Dave Wallis and Fr. Jim Williams will officiate.

Memorial tributes may be made to either Church of the Straits or the Katie Darrow Old School Park Memorial Fund at Citizens National Bank.