Laura Carmean

Laura Carmean (Zilinick), a beloved mother, daughter, sister, partner, aunt, and friend,

passed peacefully in her sleep with her daughter, Kyleigh, and her loving partner of

eight years, Tim Leske, by her side, on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, in Saginaw, Michigan.

Laura was born in Southfield, Michigan, on November 13, 1968. She spent her life

making memories in many places, living in Georgia—where her daughter, Kyleigh, was

born—as well as North Carolina, Wisconsin, and Illinois, before ultimately returning

home to Michigan, where she ended her story. Kyleigh currently lives in Fort Wayne,

Indiana, but no matter how many miles separated them, the bond between mother and

daughter remained strong.

Laura was the daughter of the late Patricia Zilincik and Anthony Zilincik. She is survived

by her only daughter, Kyleigh Carmean, who was not only her daughter but her best

friend. She is also survived by her brother, Tony Zilincik, and her niece, Sophia. Laura

leaves behind Tim Leske, her loving partner of eight years, and Tim’s daughters,

Isabella and Megan Leske, who became an important part of her life and family.

Laura spent most of her working life as a property manager. She was smart, capable,

hardworking, and never afraid to speak her mind. But anyone who knew Laura knew

that her job was only one small part of who she was.

Laura loved fiercely and laughed often. She was outgoing, funny, intelligent,

compassionate, and one of the kindest people you could ever meet. She had a

tremendous love for animals, especially cats, and she never seemed to meet a cat she

couldn't love.

Laura also had a passion for the Green Bay Packers—with a small love for the Lions

when she would watch with Tim, but only when they weren't playing against her

Packers! Milwaukee held a particularly special place in her heart, and cheering on her

Packers was one of the many things that brought her joy.

But above everything else, Laura was a mother.

To Kyleigh, Laura was home. She was her mother, her best friend, her biggest

supporter, and the person she could always count on. Their bond was something truly

special. Laura didn't just raise her daughter—she walked through life beside her,

sharing laughter, memories, adventures, and all of life's difficult moments.

Kyleigh will carry her mother's love with her for the rest of her life.

Even in death, Laura continued to give to others. As an organ donor, she was able to

give the extraordinary gift of life after she passed. It is a final reflection of the kind of

person Laura was: someone whose love and kindness extended beyond herself. Her

story may have ended, but because of her generosity, parts of her will continue to help

others live.

Laura's life was filled with places, people, laughter, animals, football, and countless

memories. But her greatest legacy will always be the love she gave to the people

fortunate enough to know her.

Celebrating Laura's Life

There will not be a traditional funeral service. Instead, Kyleigh and Tim will host a big

celebration of Laura's life next summer, south of Detroit, bringing together the

people who loved her to laugh, share memories, tell stories, and celebrate the incredible

life she lived.

Details about the celebration will be posted on Facebook once plans are finalized.

If you are not on Facebook—or simply don't want to miss the announcement—please

email Kyleigh at kycarmean@gmail.com, and she will add you to the digital invitation

list.

In Lieu of Flowers

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider making a donation to McNally

House in Saginaw, a nonprofit organization that provides a home away from home for

patients and families who need a place to stay while receiving medical treatment.

McNally House holds an especially meaningful place in Kyleigh's heart. During Laura's

final weeks, Kyleigh stayed at McNally House for five and a half weeks, allowing her to

remain close to her mom in Michigan while Laura was receiving care.

A donation to McNally House would be a beautiful way to honor Laura's memory and

help another family have a place to stay during one of the most difficult times of their

lives.

Please donate at: https://www.hhhofsaginaw.org/donate/

Laura will be deeply missed, endlessly loved, and never forgotten.

Go Pack Go.

Rest peacefully, Mom. You were my mother, my best friend, and the kindest human I

could ever have asked for. I love you more than words could ever say. Until we meet

again.