Micheline "Michelle" Antoinette DeCaire

Micheline "Michelle" DeCaire, 96, of Traverse City, Michigan, passed away peacefully on March 16, 2025, in Traverse City at home with loved ones. Michelle was born on September 21, 1928, in Blois, France to Charles and Marie (Jama) Barbier. Growing up during World War II, she faced many challenges, including the suspension of schooling, which led her to begin working at the age of 12. She was accepted into an apprenticeship in fashion at the House of Paquin and quickly advanced, working for the fashion house of Nina Ricci in Paris where she graduated as Premiere Couturiere. Michelle met her future husband, Duane, in France while they were both participating in an international sports tournament. Michelle played for the district basketball team. They married in 1954. Duane served with the US Military Police and they moved to the United States where he was being stationed in Virginia. That was where they started their family, with 2 boys, Michael and Phillip. After transfers to Germany and Texas, Michelle continued her career designing clothes for the officer’s wives and creating costumes for the Arthur Murray television show. When Duane retired from service, they moved to Birch Run, Michigan to be near Duane’s family. Michelle worked in retail clothing and started a company that complemented individual fashion which earned her an interview with PM magazine for her ingenuity. After Duane passed, Michelle moved to Traverse City to be near her son, Michael and to live in the area she so loved. Always looking to grow her skills, Michelle worked in cosmetology, expanded her career to teaching French to both children and adults, started a French tour business, and became an accomplished writer after going back to school. Michelle had a strong Catholic faith and appreciated visits from her parish after she was unable to attend. She loved animals and nature and made her home into a sanctuary for all visiting wildlife. Her cat, Sparky, was her joy as he enjoyed watching all the activity she created outside their window. Michelle had a special custom of giving close friends a nickname, which was a precious gift to receive. She loved throwing elaborate parties with her wonderfully prepared food and drinks. And when the weather got warmer, her patio was always open for entertaining. She was a pint sized ball of energy and love who will be dearly missed. Michelle was preceded in death by her parents, Charles and Marie Barbier; her husband, Duane; and her sons, Michael and Phillip. She is survived by several nieces and nephews - who knew her as Aunt Mimi, dear friends and those whose lives she touched throughout her journey. A funeral Mass will be held in her honor at St. Francis Catholic Church in Traverse City on April 28th at noon with visitation at 11:30. Memorial donations may be made in Michelle's honor to the Cherryland Humane Society or the charity of your choice.

Micheline "Michelle" Antoinette DeCaire

September 21, 1928 - March 16, 2025