Sr. Emma Kulhanek

Kulhanek, OP, Sister Emma of Chesaning died on December 26, 2024. She was 95 years old and a Dominican Sister for 76 years.

Sr. Emma earned a B.A. with a history major, and an M.A. from Aquinas College. She studied at many universities and focused on education for disadvantaged students.

Renowned for her teaching throughout Michigan, Sr. Emma reflected: “It has been rewarding to have students return or write to say they were glad they were taught for the ‘future’—not just for the moment.”

In addition to teaching, Sr. Emma served as a pastoral care giver to the elderly at Northview Manor and later as a visitor to those at Marywood Health Center.

Sr. Emma enjoyed reading, walking, crocheting, and visiting with both old and new friends.

Sr. Emma advocated for open housing, voter registration, Groundwork, and NAACP, and her travels took her to Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and Rome.

Sr. Emma is survived by her sisters-in-law, Linda Kulhanek and, Diane Kulhanek, both of Chesaning, MI; nieces, nephews; many friends; and members of her Dominican Community.

Sr. Emma will repose at Marywood Chapel of the Word, 111 Lakeside Dr. NE, with visitation on Monday, December 30, 2024, from 6:00 – 7:00 pm, followed by a Remembering Service at 7:00 pm. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:00 am on Tuesday, December 31, 2024, at Marywood Chapel of the Word. Burial will be at Resurrection Cemetery. Memorials in Sister Emma Kulhanek’s name may be made to the Grand Rapids Dominican Sisters.