Alyce Jean Grabowski

ESCANABA — Alyce Jean Grabowski, 90, of Escanaba, passed away on Wednesday, March 5, 2025 at Christian Park Health Care Center.

She was born on February 19, 1935 in National Mine, Mich., daughter of Jacob E. and Jennie H. (Hankanen) Manty.

Alyce Jean received her learning instructions to be a Practical Nurse at Northern Michigan University. For 42 years, the “Flying Finn” as she was fondly referred to by her co-workers at OSF St. Francis Hospital, worked as an PN, nurses’ aide, and in housekeeping.

On January 26, 1956, the former Alyce Jean Manty married Robert Thomas Grabowski as St. Thomas the Apostle Church in Escanaba.

Alyce Jean enjoyed shopping and taking shopping trips with her family. Being with her family, especially her grandchildren is what brought her the greatest joy.

Alyce Jean was a loving and caring person. Making others happy was a priority to her, whether it was with her own kindness, sharing a smile, looking at the bright side of things, or by surprising someone with her homemade baking.

For many years, Alyce Jean cared for many people while working at the hospital, she was blessed with that gift in return while she resided at Christian Park Health Care Center for the last 3 ½ years. She was looked after and loved by many there.

Survivors include her children, Linda Ebert of New Hope, Minn., Bonnie (Dave) Grant of Bark River, Christine (Dennis) Wiltzius of Gladstone, and Thomas (Donna) Grabowski of Appleton; grandchildren, Lesley (Luke) Wert, Sarah (Patrick) O’Neal, Ashley (Nelson) Godoy, Nicole (Nate) Ewert, Kyle (Taylor) Grabowski, Eric (Kristin) Grabowski, Heidi (Bradley Chromy) Ebert, Kayla Wiltzius, Brendan (Killian) Grabowski, and Mollie Wiltzius; 17 great-grandchildren and one more on the way; one great-great-grandchild; and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents and husband, Robert; Alyce Jean was preceded in death by her son-in-law, Lynn Ebert; and six siblings, Aina, Woody, Martin, Walter, Ruth, and Mildred.

The services for Alyce Jean will take place on Saturday, May 10 at the Church of Christ, 5079 18th Road, Escanaba. The visitation will be from 12 – 2 p.m. and the funeral service will follow at 2 p.m. with Pastor David Grant officiating. A meal will follow.

In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may be directed to the family and a memorial in Alyce Jean’s name will be established at a later date. A message of condolence may be directed to the family by visiting www.crawfordfuneralhomes.net. The Crawford Funeral Homes are assisting the family.