Evelyn Uznis, businesswoman and avid boater, dies at 86. Evelyn Ruth Tumele Uznis, an influential Detroit area businesswoman, philanthropist, and lifelong yachtswoman, died peacefully on January 26, 2013. In the early 1950's, she and her late husband John founded John F. Uznis Builders, Inc., a Dearborn based development and property management company that continues to be owned and operated by her family. Mrs. Uznis also participated in the United Service Organizations (USO) and the United States Navy League. In addition, she was a member of Zonta International, a global organization of professional women. Mrs. Uznis, a devout Catholic and member of the Patrons of the Arts of the Vatican Museums. In addition to her work and advocacy, Mrs. Uznis and her husband were avid boaters and divided much of their time between Michigan and Florida. After her husband's death in 1999, Mrs. Uznis continued to enjoy boating, dancing and tennis. Mrs. Uznis is survived by her three children: Sharon, George, and John. Six grandchildren and twelve great grandchildren. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the American National Red Cross Disaster Relief. A memorial Mass will take place at 11:00 am on Wednesday, January 30th , at Saint Peter and Paul Jesuit Church in Detroit.