Obituary of Bina Olive Caris

Bina O. (Casbar) Caris, age 94, was born in Tower Hill, Pennsylvania to James and Nellie Casbar.  She grew up in a small mining community during the Depression with her five brothers, Jim, Bob, Jack, Tom, and Web; and her four sisters, Dorthea, Evelyn, Arlene, and Marlene.  She had a strong bond with her maternal grandparents, Benjamin and Birdie, whom she adored.  She was also surrounded by aunts, uncles, and cousins who lived nearby.  Bina told many stories about this time in her life.  While she and her family experienced economic hardship, Bina often remarked that in reality, her life revolved around family, community, church, and her faith.  She cherished her family and it was these close-knit family ties that sustained her for her entire life.

When Bina’s family moved to Michigan, they were joined by many of her extended family members, including her beloved grandparents.  She met her husband, Jim, and they were married in 1951.  They had two daughters, Nancy and Cheryl.  Bina worked as a keypunch operator for decades.  Eventually she and her husband and children moved to Traverse City where they owned and operated a motel.

Throughout her life, Bina and her family frequently returned to the area where she grew up.  She never forgot her “roots”, and she and her family would frequently visit family and friends who remained in Pennsylvania.  She also loved traveling with her family to National Historic Sites, battlefields, museums, and national parks.  Frequently on these vacations, extended family would accompany them.  Bina enjoyed a life rich in experiences, and a life enriched by her close family ties.

Later in life, while her health declined, she was devoted to taking loving care of her husband, Jim, who had Alzheimer’s Disease.  After an extended period of poor health, Bina succumbed to illness, and passed away on Friday, September 1, 2023. 

She is survived by her two daughters, Nancy Caris and Cheryl Leskovansky; and six grandchildren. Her husband, Jim, and all of her brothers and sisters are now deceased.  At her request, Bina will be buried with her husband at Great Lakes National Cemetery.  Not surprisingly, she requested that the burial marker contain the inscription, “Together Forever”.  Her family wishes to express gratitude to the neighbors, friends, doctors, healthcare workers, and church family that cared for her and kept Bina in their prayers.  Those planning an expression of sympathy are asked to consider memorial contributions to the Central Appalachia Health Wagon.  To sign online guestbook, visit www.cremationsocietymidmi.com 

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