Carol J. Benaglio

Houghton

Carol Jean Benaglio, 86, of Houghton, passed away peacefully on May 11th 2025 at the Portage Pointe Nursing Home in Hancock, MI where she had been a resident for the past 2 ½ years.

Carol was born December 24, 1938 in Ishpeming, the daughter of Edgar and Gladys Curtis of Negaunee. She was a graduate of Northern Michigan University where she received her Bachelor of Science and Master of Arts in Education degrees. It was while she was at Northern that she met Tony Benaglio and they were married on December 27, 1960. She started her teaching career in Pontiac, Michigan before moving to Houghton in 1963 to raise her family. Carol taught 3rd grade in the Houghton-Portage School District for 31 years retiring in 1994.

After retiring, Carol and Tony purchased a motorhome and traveled throughout the U.S. and Canada. Eventually they bought a home in Surprise, Arizona and became snowbirds, wintering in Arizona, but returning to Houghton to enjoy golfing and boating during the summer.

Carol was a member of the St. Ignatius Restoration Committee and played a large role in the restoration of the St. Ignatius Church. Carol also served on the Houghton Housing Commission. She was a member of the Red Hat Society in Houghton and Arizona, the ADK International Honorary Organization for Women Educators, the MEA, The League of Women's Voters, and the Portage Lake Women's Golf League.

Carol is survived by her husband Anthony Benaglio of Houghton, sons Tony (Cynthia) of Negaunee, Curt (Lisa) of Battle Creek, and grandchildren Nickolas (deceased), Rebecca, Kristopher (Jillian), Trevor (Brooke), Brandon, and great grandchildren; Madison, Layla, Colton, Gracelyn, and Olivia.

The Benaglio family wants to thank the Portage Point Nursing Home Administration and staff, the nurses and aides in both the Franklin House and the Winnona House for their professional and caring manner.

Online condolences may be shared through the Memorial Chapel Funeral & Cremation Services at www.memorialchapel.net. Any donations can be made to St. Ignatius Catholic Church or Little Brothers Friends of the Elderly in Hancock, Michigan.

A private family memorial will be held at a later date.