Sari Embley

She is preceded in death by her mother, Laura Andrews and her father, Sydney (Peter) Embley.

Sari is survived by her loving daughter, Morgana Penglase and two sisters, Be Embley and Moire Embley. She found solace and companionship in her service dog, Real (short for real good dog!).

Sari, born March 1, 1951, lived her entire life in Marquette. She attended Northern Michigan University receiving a degree in social work. After college she went on to work at LS&l Railroad as a CTC Operator. Warehouse manager for 30 years, holding her own in a male-dominated industry.

Sari had a distinctive and unmistakable laugh. She even found humor in what others might consider “offbeat”. Sari was an independent and unapologetically unique individual. Some might even have described her as somewhat eccentric. That said, she was also known for having a big heart. She took in abandoned animals, providing them with a home and safe refuge. She was an extraordinary gardener, taking pleasure in growing flowers that beautified the neighborhood and drew an abundance of bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. When the garden was in full bloom, she shared the fruits of her labor, delivering flowers to friends and family. If friends or family fell ill or suffered hardships, she would make beacons of light out of ice to sit outside their homes… a symbol of hope, healing, and love.

The Unitarian Universalist Church was an important part of her life. She loved the sense of community it brought her. She loved decorating the sanctuary, working with the kids, and being at peace with all her friends. Because of her involvement, her daughter Morgana recalls…“I was able to come out of my shell and gain a sense of confidence. I will remember my mom for her love and support….. being there for me during hard times”.

Sari found joy in finding treasures in second-hand thrift shops. She loved to cook (a pretty damned good one at that), and loved to bake…bread was one of her passion, baking any variety! She also loved parties, celebrations, and hosting family dinners. She loved to dance with her daughter and sisters when they were little to all kinds of music.

Sari, you are greatly missed and very much loved by your daughter, sisters, and friends. Thank you for gracing our lives.

Our family extends gratitude and appreciation to the Hospice Care Team, and the Doctors and nurses in the hospital for their compassionate care and responsiveness. Thank you Michael Waite for showing up in a heartbeat to share your beautiful healing music with Sari before her passing. It meant the world to her and us.

On Saturday, March 1, 2025 (Sari’s Birthday), please join us in a celebration of life at the Women’s Federated Clubhouse in Marquette from 1:00-4:00 pm. There will be memory sharing, live music by Michael Waite, Log Jam, and friends. Appetizers, salads and soup will be catered by Vangos, if you’d like to bring a dish to share you are welcome too.