Carl Mapley

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved father, Carl Grant Mapley, who left this world peacefully on December 5, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. After a long journey, his suffering has ended, and he is joyfully reunited with his wife of 66 years, Faye Ellen Mapley, the love of his life.
Carl's strength, kindness, and devotion to his family will forever be cherished. His presence brought warmth to every room, his wisdom guided us through life's challenges, and his humor kept us laughing. Though we grieve deeply, we take comfort in knowing he is at peace and together again with Mom. His memory will live on in the hearts of his children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, and all who were fortunate to know him.
Born to the late Burl and Mildred Mapley, Carl was a devoted son, a loving husband, a thoughtful father, a proud Papa, a loyal friend, and a caring brother. He was preceded in death by his sister, Constance, and his brother-in-law, Jim Downing. He is survived by his sister, Sally Fuller. Carl's legacy continues through his children: Susan (Tim) Moser, Sheryl Palmer, Karen (Jon) Van Eck, and David Grant Mapley, Esquire; his grandchildren Laura Moser, Kaitlin Moser, Robby (Megan) Moser, Timothy (Elena) Mapley, Forrest Van Eck, Hunter Van Eck, Connor (Sofie) Van Eck, and Ireland Van Eck; and his great-grandchildren Miles Moser and Archer Mapley. He is survived by his many nieces and nephews.
Carl graduated from Pontiac Central High School in 1955 before pursuing studies at both the University of Michigan and Michigan State University. A gifted musician, he proudly marched as a drummer with the Michigan Marching Band and later carried that rhythm into service as a Marine Corps drummer while honoring his country in the United States Marine Corps. At home, his love of music took on a lighter note, as he often played the bongos for his four children, sparking laughter and pajama clad dance parties. His discipline, dedication, and joyful devotion to music were defining parts of his character.
Professionally, Carl dedicated 25 years of his career as a Land Surveyor with Johnson and Anderson, where his precision and commitment earned the respect of colleagues and clients alike.
Carl was an active father, deeply involved in his children's lives. He participated alongside them in both Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts, instilling values of service and adventure. He also served as President of the AAU Swim Team during the years his daughters swam, supporting their growth and encouraging their achievements in and out of the pool.
Beyond his professional life, Carl found joy in the outdoors. He loved hunting and fishing, passions that carried into retirement when he and Faye spent summers at their cottage on the Au Sable River in Oscoda, Michigan. Together, they fished for salmon aboard their beloved boat, the Windancer. For over two decades, they also wintered in Orange Harbor, Fort Myers, Florida, where they enjoyed a community of friends until Hurricane Ian tragically destroyed their home.
Carl found great joy in tending his hobby farm, where he nurtured apple, cherry, and pear trees, along with flourishing grapevines. He took pride in harvesting and preserving the fruits of his labor, especially his apples which he pressed into cider and sold at local farmer markets. His love of the land extended to gardening and canning, with his signature spaghetti sauce, pickles, and hot peppers becoming family favorites.
Carl's generous spirit touched many. Carl cherished the compassionate care of his caregiver, Kristy Guldan, whose kindness and friendship brought him comfort and joy. Over the past 30 years, Carl deeply valued the steadfast companionship and cherished friendship of his neighbor, George Hourdakis.
He was deeply grateful for the care provided by his dialysis team at Greenfield Dialysis led by RN Manager Amy; Judy, Sami, Gina, Steven, Reggie, as well as NP Patrick, and Nephrologist Dr Ramamurthi. He wouldn't have arrived without the dedicated drivers at West Bloomfield Parks and Recreation; Ben, Tim, Michael, and Jack. All of whom treated him like family.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, December 20, 2025, at Orchard Lake Community Church, 5171 Commerce Road, Orchard Lake, Michigan, 48324. Family and friends are invited to gather from 10-11am with the service beginning at 11:00 a.m. For those unable to attend in person, the service will be live streamed at OLCCP.com under the "Watch Live & Past Video" tab.
Carl's legacy of love, laughter, service, music, and the simple joys of nature will remain a guiding light for all who knew him.