Cover for Carol A. Falle's Obituary

Carol A. Falle

September 2, 1920 — June 1, 2026

Carol A. Falle, age 105 ¾ , a longtime resident of Livonia, passed away on June 1, 2026. She was born on September 2, 1920 on the Dowsett family farm in Salem, Michigan, the daughter of George Gunn and Rose Dowsett. Carol was united in marriage to Ed Falle on May 10, 1941; they spent 44 years lovingly devoted to one another until his death in 1985.

Carol graduated from Redford High School, where she was a member of the National Honor Society, with the Class of 1938 and later attended Burroughs Business School. She began her professional career with the Alemite Company before embarking on a long and distinguished career with the City of Livonia. Joining the Water Department in 1957, Carol's dedication, professionalism, and strong work ethic earned her advancement to the position of Assistant Deputy Treasurer. After 25 years of faithful service to the City of Livonia and its residents, she retired in 1982, leaving behind a legacy of commitment and excellence.

Carol spent 84 years in the home her husband, Ed, built for their family. Affectionately known as “Uncle Eddie’s Day Camp,” the house was a gathering place filled with laughter, love, and countless memories. While Ed may have lent his name to the camp, Carol proudly served as its CEO. Together, they created a welcoming home where they raised their daughters and enjoyed a lifetime of happiness.

Carol and Ed shared many interests, including square dancing, entertaining friends, and staying active. An accomplished bowler and avid golfer, Carol also enjoyed card games, puzzles, and creative pursuits. She had a talent for making ceramic dolls and, later in life, taught herself to play the organ. Independent, determined, and hardworking, Carol took great pride in caring for her home. She faithfully mowed her lawn, raked leaves, and shoveled snow for many years, never shying away from hard work. In fact, at the age of 103, she purchased a new snowblower so she could continue maintaining her property herself.

Carol was known as an exceptional cook and baker. Family and friends eagerly anticipated her tuna noodle casserole, homemade bread, chocolate chip cookies, and lemon meringue pie. She especially loved hosting holidays and lived by the motto, “the more the merrier.” Nothing brought her greater joy than gathering loved ones around her table, and she was delighted to prepare Christmas dinner for 21 family members in 2025.

A dedicated volunteer, Carol was a member of the Red Hat Society and generously gave her time to the American Red Cross, assisting with countless blood drives over the years. She was a devoted member of St. Paul’s Presbyterian Church in Livonia, where she faithfully served on the Board of Deacons and actively supported the church community through her time and service.

Above all, Carol treasured her family and friendships. She maintained close relationships with relatives and friends across Canada, Germany, England, California, and Florida. For ten years, she and her daughters, Bobbie and Linda, shared a special tradition known as the “Falle Girls Fall Tour,” taking annual adventures together to explore some of Michigan’s most beautiful destinations. These trips created treasured memories and reflected the deep bond they shared.

Carol will be remembered for her unwavering independence, remarkable work ethic, and generous heart. She was a woman who never hesitated to tackle a project, lend a helping hand, or welcome another chair to the table. Her home was a gathering place where family and friends were always greeted with warmth, delicious food, and genuine hospitality. Carol's strength, determination, and zest for life inspired everyone who knew her. Above all, she will be remembered as a devoted wife, loving mother, cherished grandmother and great-grandmother, and loyal friend whose love and example will continue to guide her family for generations to come.

Carol is survived by her daughter Barbara “Bobbie” (Paul) Ferguson; her son-in-law Tom Handyside; her grandchildren, Chris (Kristine) Handyside, Matt (Leslie) Handyside, Mike (Megan) Ferguson, and Lindsay (Sean) Kiebler; and her great grandchildren, Nolan Handyside, Elliott (David) Eash, Callen Handyside, Oscar Handyside, Seth Ferguson, Riley Ferguson, Henry Kiebler, Emerson Kiebler, Agnes Kiebler. She is also survived by many wonderful nieces and nephews from the Paison, Marino, and Gunn families. Carol was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, her daughter Linda Handyside, her sister Betty Paison, and her brothers, Robert Gunn and Jack Gunn.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, June 16, 2026 from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. with a funeral service beginning at 1:00 p.m. at Casterline Funeral Home, 122 West Dunlap, Northville.

Memorial contributions would be appreciated to the Alzheimer’s Association, 25200 Telegraph Road, Suite 100, Southfield, MI 48033.

To send flowers or plant a memorial tree in memory, please visit our flower store.

Service Schedule

Upcoming Services

Visitation

Tuesday, June 16, 2026

11:00 am - 1:00 pm (Eastern time)

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Funeral Service

Tuesday, June 16, 2026

Starts at 1:00 pm (Eastern time)

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