Carmella Sabaugh

Sabaugh, Carmella passed away peacefully on June 8, 2024 at the age of 85.
Born on August 3, 1938 in Detroit, Michigan to Paul and Lena Visconti. Carmella was orphaned with her sisters in her early childhood. She overcame early hardship and thrived with her family and political career. She was elected to Warren City Council, Warren City Clerk and Macomb County Clerk over a distinguished 40-year career in public service.
Carmella married Richard Sabaugh in June 1960 and moved to Warren where she became a mother to five children who survive her: Rick (the late Vicki), Mike (Rashell), Renee (Todd), Jeanine (Rick) and Matt (Rachel) (now an elected Macomb County Circuit Court Judge). Carmella shared 27 years of marriage with Richard; their relationship, enriched with love and friendship, endured beyond their marriage, exemplifying a commitment to family that remained steadfast through many celebrations and milestones.
In addition to her five children; her family included 13 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren who loved her for her devotion to each of them. She is survived by her sister, Pauline Peterson, and many loving nieces and nephews.
Family was the cornerstone of our mother's world. She deeply cherished her children, grandchildren, sisters, in-laws, nieces, and nephews. Her love for her family was boundless, and she took immense pride in their achievements and supported their aspirations.
Carmella also dedicated herself to a distinguished political career, impacting many from her early days on the Warren City Council and Warren City Clerk to significant roles such as Macomb County Clerk. She was a pillar in politics, yet her commitment extended beyond her title as she genuinely served the public.
Her readiness to assist constituents, whether it involved urgent requests for essential documents over weekends or guidance, underscored her dedication.
Her campaigns were a family affair, we were all part of it, including bingo nights that brought in funds and fun; assembling and distributing literature in neighborhoods (the prized State of Michigan map or a "Sabaugh" ruler), putting up campaign signs, and working election day polls.
At the County Clerk's office, Carmella saw her staff as an extended family. She was a mentor and cheerleader, encouraging personal and professional growth among her team. Her leadership not only earned numerous national awards for service excellence but also fostered a collaborative and supportive environment.
Beyond her public roles, she was an active community member, an amazing cook, a seamstress and deeply loved by her countless friends.
As we remember Carmella, we celebrate a matriarch who was a positive force of faith and love in all of our lives. In her memory, may we all bring more of that Carmella energy into our relationships and communities.
Thank you for sharing in this reflection of her remarkable life.
Memorial contributions can be made in her honor to the Leader Dogs for the Blind in Rochester, MI; https://www.leaderdog.org/
Family will receive friends Sunday June 23, 2024 from 3-8pm at Wujek-Calcaterra, 36900 Schoenherr Rd., Sterling Heights, MI 48312.
A Memorial Mass will be held Monday June 24, 2024 at 11am at St. Andrew's Catholic Church, 1400 Inglewood Ave., Rochester, MI 48307.