Carmen Rosamund Gronda

Carmen Rosamund Gronda, 84, of Jackson, passed away peacefully Wednesday February 26, 2025 at Fountain View of Portage in Portage. 

She was born December 29, 1940 in Saginaw, Michigan, the daughter of Raymond Manchester and Verona May (Stafford) Manchester.

Upon graduating high school, Carmen attended Cedarville College of Liberal Arts in Ohio, pursuing a Church Music Major. Carmen was a talented organist and pianist for over 50 years. She played at St. Anthony's Catholic Church in Saginaw before moving to Jackson where she continued playing at St. John's Catholic Church and Westminster Presbyterian Church. Also, she was an active band parent, both when her children were in the band and when her children became band directors of their own school bands. 

Carmen was also a graduate of Saginaw Business College with a degree in accounting and stenography. While raising her two children, she worked for several businesses utilizing her experience in clerical, payroll and accounting functions.

Carmen had a variety of interests. She was an avid pet lover and adored her cats. She enjoyed collecting owl figurines. Also, she was an accomplished seamstress of which her children were beneficiaries when they were younger. In her spare time, Carmen enjoyed doing puzzles and coloring. Her greatest joy was her time spent with her grandson Elliot and following all his interests and activities.

She is survived by her daughter, Amy Gronda of Paw Paw, son, Kirk Gronda of East Lansing and grandson, Elliot Gronda. 

Carmen was preceded in death by her parents. 

Cremation has taken place. In accordance with Carmen's wishes, there will be no public services at this time. A hymn sing and time of fellowship in Carmen’s honor will be held in April.