Denise Passage, age 61, passed away August 31, 2022, peacefully with the love of her life Mike Passage by her side.

She was born in Muskegon, MI on January 17, 1961, the daughter of Beverly (Moseler) and Earl Carney. Denise was blessed with a wonderful childhood. She graduated class valedictorian from Oakridge High School with the class of 1979. Denise went on to earn a Master's degree from Grand Valley State University. She retired from Muskegon Community College after also teaching at Orchard View High School and Orchard View Community Education. In her many years working in education, she impacted the lives of thousands of students. Her family was everything to her, especially her grandchildren.

Denise is survived by husband of 22 years, Michael Passage; daughters Heather (Nate) Johnson, Ashley (Justin) Melchert, Jill Passage and sons Bradley (Heidi) Passage and Nick (Amber) Passage; her mother-in-law Susie Passage, the light of her life grandchildren: Gabrielle, Payton, Brooklynn, Bella, Alekza, Cooper, Greyson, Malania, Cole, Blake, Eli, Kelby, Georgia, and Kendin; loving siblings Anita (Ron) Moon, Audrey (Ron) Coleman, Kristi Carney, Jeffery (Linda) Carney; her favorite sister-in-law Paula (Michael) Port; many nieces and nephews whom adored her.

She was preceded in death by her parents Earl and Beverly Carney, her niece Christina Wood and her favorite dog, Bennett.

According to her wishes, a celebration of life will take place at a later date.

As Denise always thought of others before herself, in lieu of flowers, donations in memory of her can be made to the WillStrong Foundation at Safe Harbor Credit Union of Ludington, MI to help others fighting cancer.

Please share a memory with the family at www.oakgrovefh.com. Arrangements by Oak Grove Funeral Home & Cremation Center in Manistee.