Caryl Ann DeBroder-Zelinski

WATERSMEET, Mich. - Caryl Ann DeBroder-Zelinski, 83, of Watersmeet, passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, July 10, 2022.

Caryl was born on July 13, 1938, in Chicago, a daughter of Fredrick John and Gladys (Perrin) DeBroder. She and her twin brother, Charles, were the youngest of seven children.

Caryl was married to Gilbert L. Salter, and they were blessed with two sons. Then, she was married to Charles "Skip" Buchanan. At the time of her death, Caryl was married to Phillip N. Zelinski.

She is survived by her beloved husband, Phillip; two sons, Kevin Salter and Phillip (Maura) Salter; six grandchildren, Morgan (Chris), Brandon (Wendy), John and Cora and Matthew and Bridie; three great-grandchildren, Genevieve, Samantha and Daniel; her twin brother, Charles (Jeanne) DeBroder; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was a grandmother to not her own: Justin, Elizabeth, Jeremy and Josh.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and her siblings, Glen DeBroder, Gordon DeBroder, Jean (Orville) Hanneman, Gloria (Robert) Whitfield and Gladys DeBroder.

Caryl worked many jobs throughout her life but owning and operating the Lac La Belle Resort was her most rewarding job, as she especially enjoyed meeting new and returning guests. She was a dedicated member of the Watersmeet Chamber of Commerce and was made a lifetime member who continually promoted the Upper Peninsula during regional sports shows. There, she enjoyed talking to the folks who stopped by her booth. As a Democrat, Caryl was in great demand to work the election polls at Watersmeet Township.

She never met a stranger and could strike up a conversation with almost anyone. For many years, Caryl could be seen on her daily walks.

Please join us in celebrating Caryl's life on Sunday, July 17, at 2 p.m., preceded by visitation at 1 p.m., at the Watersmeet Bible Church, with the Rev. Robert E. Yerks officiating.

A luncheon will be served at the church following the service.

In lieu of flowers, please make memorial contributions to the Watersmeet Bible Church, E23640 U.S. Highway 2, Watersmeet, MI 49969.

Jerald Rocco, owner and manager of Lakeside Memorial Chapel Inc., in Wakefield, is assisting the family with their arrangements. Condolences may be expressed online at lakesidememorialchapel.com.