Constance L. Riopelle

October 7, 1940 - February 15, 2022

Constance "Connie" Riopelle, of Williamsburg MI, passed away peacefully on February 15, 2022 at home, surrounded by those she loved. Her life was defined by strong determination, deep kindness, and a driving passion to help the underdog. Connie was born on October 7, 1940 to the late Howard and Lucille (Grace) Riopelle. She was preceded in death by her loving partner of 42 years, Sue Dowden. She is survived by her sister, Nancy MacNall, her nephew, Jeff Thatch, nieces Kimber Thatch and Marita MacNall McGee, great nieces, Kristen Walker, Crystal Tillman, Samantha Tillman, and multiple great nephews. She is also survived by Katie, her faithful dog who stayed by her side until the end. Connie was also preceded in death by her nephew, Robert MacNall. Connie was active and vivacious her entire life. She loved all outdoor activities including tennis, kayaking, golfing, and field hockey in her younger days. She played competitive tennis until her 80th birthday. Connie represented the State of Michigan in National Senior Tennis Olympics in Alburquerque, NM in 2018. She traveled the world with friends and family and enjoyed many adventures. Her "happy place" was Bois Blanc Island where she spent every summer, enjoying the rich beauty that only the island could provide with solace and comfort to all that visited. Her other passion the last couple years was spending time with her good friend Tammy Euper Short and their dogs, driving and camping in her motor home that she named "HOWIE" (“House On Wheels Instant Excitement"). Connie spent her working career in northern Michigan as an educator, administrator and consultant. She had a Masters degree from the University of Michigan and was a true "maize and blue" fan. Her final wish was granted to donate her body to U of M for medical research. Connie was actively involved with numerous charitable organizations throughout her life. She was a constant advocate for the homeless and undeserved. She was an early cornerstone of the Jubilee House. With VOSH International Vision Care, she traveled to Honduras and helped provide the gift of sight. For the past five years, Connie was an instrumental leader in PoWeR! Book Bags, working tirelessly on grants, budgeting, planning, and expanding the nonprofit’s reach. This nonprofit was especially important to Connie because of her lifelong passion for education, making a difference in the lives of thousands of kids in Northern Michigan. In lieu of flowers, those wishing to continue her legacy are invited to contribute to PoWeR! Book Bags (PO Box 533, Suttons Bay, MI 49682) A Celebration of Life ceremony will be held Saturday, March 5th, 2022 at Grace Episcopal Church, 341 Washington St, Traverse City MI 49684 with visitation starting at 1pm and service commencing at 2pm.