Mary Lou Karhu

Mary Lou Karhu, age 89, of Livonia, passed away on April 17, 2026. She was born on July 24, 1936 in Northville, Michigan; daughter of Irvin and Ethel (Hartner) Ware. Mary Lou was a proud graduate of Northville High School with the Class of 1954. She continued her education at Eastern Michigan University where she earned a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education. Mary Lou was united in marriage to the love of her life Freemont E. Karhu on August 25, 1969. They spent 44 years lovingly devoted to one another until his death on July 31, 2014.

Mary Lou began her long and dedicated teaching career with the Redford Union School District in 1959 at Roosevelt Elementary School, where she served as a kindergarten teacher. In that role, she helped lay the foundation for her students’ future education and lifelong learning. Deeply loved by her students, many remained in touch with her throughout the years. Known for being nurturing, kind, and caring, Mary Lou was also firm when needed. She had a special gift with children and cared for each of them as if they were her own. Mary Lou retired in 2000 after 41 years of teaching.

Mary Lou was a proud member of the Red Hat Society and generously supported causes that were close to her heart. She was especially kind and generous to those who cared for her. Though gentle in spirit, she could also be strong-willed and stubborn when the moment called for it. Mary Lou enjoyed watching baseball and faithfully cheering on the Detroit Tigers. Fox News was often on the television, and she also enjoyed true crime and detective shows. She enjoyed playing bingo, shopping on QVC, and crafting. Mary Lou liked to camp and treasured the time she spent in Northern Michigan. She and her husband built a cottage on Black River where they spent quiet days on a pontoon boat soaking up the sun.

Mary Lou’s home was filled with treasured collections that reflected her personality and the things she loved. She displayed stuffed bears throughout her home, wreaths adorned her walls, and her collection of musical clocks was thoughtfully arranged to chime at different times throughout the day. She even had a beloved bird clock that played a different bird song at the top of each hour. Mary Lou also collected decorative plates and teacups. She had a wide variety of hats and was rarely seen without one from her cherished collection.

Mary Lou found peace and tranquility in the backyard oasis she lovingly created, where she cared for wildlife and cultivated beautiful flowers. No matter the season, she faithfully kept the bird feeders full, nourishing not only birds, but also squirrels, groundhogs, raccoons, and even an occasional fox. The herd of deer that visited her yard knew to wait patiently as she filled the feeders with corn. She always kept treats on hand for her animal visitors, including peanuts and suet cakes, and provided heated bird baths with fresh water year-round. Mary Lou also showed great compassion in caring for a feral cat that came to rely on her kindness. She surrounded her home with lovely gardens filled with vibrant blooms, statues, and gazing balls. Generous by nature, she was always happy to share her plants with friends and neighbors so they could enjoy them in their own gardens. Mary Lou often sat in her chair by the large window, admiring the peaceful and beautiful space she had created. Mary Lou’s kindness and generosity touched the lives of all who knew her. Her memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved her, and she will be deeply missed.

Mary Lou is survived by her cousin, Janice Cameron and her close caring friends, Brian (Sonja) Girouard, Raja (Tony) Callazo, Bonnie Crysler, and many others. She was preceded in death by her husband and her parents.

Visitation will be held Thursday, April 23, 2026 from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. with a Funeral Service at 1:00 p.m. at Casterline Funeral Home, 122 West Dunlap, Northville. She will be laid to rest next to her husband at Rural Hill Cemetery in Northville.

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate memorial contributions to Michigan Humane, 2937 E. Grand Blvd., Ste. 800, Detroit, MI 48202 or Shriners Hospitals for Children, 2900 Rocky Point Drive, Tampa, FL 33607.