Pauline Stevens

Pauline Stevens, a beacon of determination and warmth, passed away peacefully on February 4, 2026, at the age of 98, in Canton, Michigan. Born on July 26, 1927, in Depew, New York, to the late Joe and Mary Ceravolo, Pauline's life was marked by her unwavering spirit and dedication to her loved ones and community.

Pauline's story is one of true love and partnership. She met her beloved husband, Charles Stevens, in a charming encounter where she was the diligent waitress and he the smitten customer. Their love blossomed, and they married on April 18, 1953, sharing a beautiful journey together until Charles's passing in February of 2010. Together, they forged a life filled with adventures, often found with golf clubs in hand or exploring new destinations, especially cherishing their retirement years in the sunny climate of Naples, Florida.

Survived by her devoted children, Patricia (Daniel) Slack, Chuck (Shelly) Stevens, and Jack (Karen Sherrard) Stevens, Pauline was the matriarch of a family that adored her. Her grandchildren, Joshua (Katherine) Slack, Joel (Kathryn) Slack, the late Jonathan Slack, Kristen Slack, Chase (Ashley) Stevens, Lexi (Anthony) Turoldo, and Kacey Stevens, as well as her great-grandchildren, Amalia, Aya, Stella, Brenda, Rohan, and Caroline, will carry her legacy forward. Pauline was the cherished sister of the late Domenica (the late Frank) Cappella, Rocco (the late Patricia) Ceravolo, the late Rose Marie (the late Vincent) Porcaro, and Agatha (the late Charles) Darling. Her extended family of nieces and nephews will also hold her memory dear.

Pauline's pursuit of education later in life was an inspiration to all. She earned her GED, followed by a Bachelor's degree and then a Master's in Special Education from Eastern University, a testament to her belief in the power of lifelong learning. For 16 years, she dedicated herself to teaching, touching many lives from 1974 to 1991 until her well-earned retirement.

Never one to rest on her laurels, Pauline channeled her energy into creating beauty and comfort for others. She opened and ran a bed and breakfast in Houghton Lake, infusing it with her personal touch and hospitality well into her 70s. Her garden was a vibrant testament to her nurturing spirit, and her love for her family was the root of her existence.

Pauline's zest for life was reflected in her myriad of interests and talents. An amazing baker, she was famous for her holiday cookies, which she crafted in delightful varieties. Her hands were rarely still, as she was adept at basket-making, knitting, crocheting, painting, jewelry-making, and sewing. Her creations are cherished keepsakes, ensuring that a piece of her remains with everyone she touched.

Pauline Stevens was a go-getter, a woman who embraced life with both hands and left indelible imprints on the hearts of those she met. Her legacy is one of love, creativity, and the enduring message that it is never too late to chase your dreams. She will be profoundly missed, yet her spirit will continue to guide and inspire her family and all who had the privilege of knowing her.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Penrickton Center for Blind Children. You can find the link below.