In Loving Memory of Connie Kay Suarez

April 9, 1953 – February 18, 2026

Connie Kay Suarez, a woman of boundless energy, selflessness, and joy, passed away leaving a legacy of love that spanned generations. Born in Cadillac, Michigan, to Hank and Sarah Henry, Connie was adopted at age three by Everett and Doris Mueller. She grew up in a large, bustling family that shaped her lifelong devotion to kinship.

While attending Willow Run High School, Connie was never afraid to break barriers. During her ten years at Canteen Hydramatic, she took immense pride in being the first female porter ever hired. Later in life, she proved it's never too late for a new chapter; she returned to school in her 40s, graduating at the top of her cosmetology class and becoming the dedicated stylist for her entire extended family.

Connie's greatest love story began shortly after Pat Suarez's honorable discharge from the Navy. From the moment a 21-year-old Pat saw her walk through a friend's door, he was "wowed"—a gleam that remained in his eyes for the next 50 years. Married on June 10, 1977, in Ypsilanti, their 49-year marriage was a masterclass in devotion.

As a mother and "Nana," Connie was the gold standard. Whether she was hosting massive holiday parties, leading "hooky days" filled with movies and paper dolls, or singing made-up songs, she made every child in her orbit feel like the center of the universe. Her home was the neighborhood headquarters, defined by summer days in the pool, decorating Christmas cookies, and the smell of her famous homemade carrot cake.

She was a survivor and a fighter who never stopped moving—often waking up early to rearrange the entire house before the rest of the family had even opened their eyes.

Connie is reunited in peace with her parents, her surrogate parents and in-laws, Sonny and Hazel Suarez; her siblings Shirley Gray, Frank Henry, and Cathy; and her brother-in-law Donald Ballard.

Her spirit lives on through her devoted husband, Pat; her daughters, Tina Suarez and Alana (Craig) Keehl; and her five cherished grandchildren: Lexie, Mariah, Austyn, Sarah, and Artemis. She also leaves behind her siblings Barbara (Guy) Cole, Linda (Leon) Ouellette, and Vickie (Ed) Hamilton; along with a sea of nieces and nephews who will forever cherish the memories of "Aunt Connie."

Please join us to honor and celebrate Connie on April 19, 2026. We will gather at the Ypsilanti Moose Lodge (5506 Stoney Creek Rod) between 1 pm and 4 pm to trade stories and remember the joy she brought to our lives.