Kim Mankvitz

Kim Mankvitz, age 65, passed away on April 19, 2026. She was born on July 30, 1960, in Livonia, Michigan, to her late parents, Robert Lee Jr and Audree Simmers.

Kim was the beloved and devoted wife of the late Thomas Mankvitz, and a loving mother to Sara (spouse Buddy)Jones and John Mankvitz. She was a proud and deeply devoted grandmother to Luke and Lucy Jones, who brought her immense joy. She is also survived by her loving sister, Michelle (spouse Robbie) Benedict, and was a cherished aunt to her nieces, Kristi and Danielle Benedict. Kim was preceded in death by her brother, Robert Lee III Simmers.

Kim dedicated over 20 years of service as a paraprofessional with Livonia Public Schools. She truly loved her work and the students she supported. Known for her reliability and strong work ethic, she took great pride in showing up each day and being someone others could count on. She was also regarded as a mentor by fellow paraprofessionals and formed lasting friendships through her career, including a special bond with her dear friend Phyllis.

Family was at the heart of Kim’s life. Since 1971, she treasured summers spent at the family cottage on Elk Lake, a place filled with laughter and cherished memories. She loved swimming, boating, sitting by the fire making s’mores, and simply being surrounded by those she loved. She also enjoyed fishing with her son John over the years and making trips to the dam together, moments she deeply cherished.

Kim shared an especially close bond with her sister Michelle. Growing up together in Rosedale Gardens, the two remained inseparable throughout their lives. They enjoyed countless activities together, including playing euchre, going to the movies, dining out, swimming, and talking often on the phone.

A beloved aunt to Kristi and Danielle, Kim was both a cherished family member and a dear friend. She had a gift for filling any room with laughter, often sharing her playful stories and warm sense of humor.

Kim was known for her outgoing and adventurous spirit. She loved playing euchre around town, meeting new people, and embracing life as a true social butterfly. Whether it was a spontaneous outing, a movie night, or simply chatting with friends, Kim brought energy and joy wherever she went.

She also formed special friendships later in life, including with Denise Adkins and Donna Galatian, whom she grew close to after her daughter Sara’s marriage in 2015. Together, they shared many happy moments—enjoying time with the grandchildren, riding dirt bikes, playing music bingo, and going on fun adventures.

Above all, Kim’s greatest joy was spending time with her grandchildren. She shared a special bond with Luke and Lucy, always eager to hear about their lives, their stories, and their experiences in school. Kim also shared an extraordinarily close relationship with her daughter, Sara, who was truly her best friend. They spoke multiple times a day, spent countless hours together, and leaned on one another through all of life’s moments—both big and small. Her love, attention, and pride in her family were unwavering.

Friends may gather at the Schrader-Howell Funeral Home, 280 South Main Street, Plymouth, Michigan, on Saturday, May 16, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. to celebrate Kim’s life.

Those wishing to honor Kim’s memory are invited to consider a contribution through Ugift to support college savings for her grandchildren, Luke and Lucy Jones.

To make a contribution:

Visit Ugift529.com  

Enter Luke’s Ugift code: Q4J-J7K

Enter your name and gift amount

Complete your gift via electronic funds transfer or check