Barb Strong Obituary

BARBARA STRONG Barbara "Barb" Jean Strong, age 81, was born to eternal life Nov. 17, 2011, surrounded by her loved ones, in Henderson. She was born Nov. 5, 1930, in Shiawassee County, Mich., to the late Michael and Rose Guza. Barb will be dearly missed by her devoted husband, Robert Strong, her best friend, lake lover, traveling partner and constant companion. Raised in Flint, Mich., Barb married Don Lefanowicz and raised four children in Fenton, Mich. Barb's nurturing way led her to a career in nursing, graduating from Hurley School of Nursing in 1951. She worked the "third" shift at the hospital so she could be home with her children after school. It was always family that mattered to her. In 1978, Barb married Bob Strong, and her life became truly complete. Sharing in the pleasures of living by lakes, rivers and grand casinos, rooting for the Detroit sports teams – Go Pistons! Barb and Bob have traveled and enjoyed their children and grandchildren. Settling in Henderson in 2004, they found a home base. Barbara is also survived by her children, Mark Lefanowicz (Katherine), Kris Kielian, Craig Lefanowicz (Jennifer) and Lynn Tushup (Robert); her stepchildren, Matthew Strong (Cristina), Michael Strong (Betty) and Timothy Strong; and her grandchildren, Maxwell Lutz, Libby, Becca and Molly Lefanowicz, Michael and Brianne Lefanowicz, Taylor Tushup, Adam Munoz and Alex Tushup, Caitlynn and Matthew Strong Jr., Zachary and Jake Strong, Maxwell, and Dylan and Seth Strong; her sisters, Rose DeMarais and Alberta Hazelrigs (Jerry); and her brothers, Michael Guza (Pat), Donald Guza (Sendy) and David Guza (Carolyn). She was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Joanne Dobrin; brother, Ronald Guza; brother-in-law, James DeMarais; and stepson, Kenneth Strong. Friends and family are invited to a memorial service at 1 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 29, at Palm Mortuary, 800 S. Boulder Highway, Henderson. An additional funeral Mass/memorial service will be offered at St. John the Evangelist in Fenton next summer. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Shriners Hospitals for Children, c/o Mark Lefanowicz, 3372 Hermosa Way, Lafayette, CA 94549.

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Published by Las Vegas Review-Journal from Nov. 19 to Nov. 20, 2011.

Memories and Condolences
for Barb Strong

6 Entries

Tami Healy

November 30, 2011

Aunt Barbara was a wonderful lady with a big heart for family. I remember going to the house in Fenton for family get togethers at the holidays. While the kids would play, the guys in the study playing cards and the ladies would gather around the table. It made beautiful memories for us to cherish. Aunt Barb was such a kind and welcoming lady and she has truly left her mark on the the Guza Ladies. She will be missed but never forgotten.
Tami, Mike and Connie Guza, Mike's kids.

Denise (DeMarais) Beachy

November 27, 2011

Aunt Barbara was a very special and influential person in my life. She cared deeply about her family, the whole extended family, and this was shown in her willingness to host us for so many holidays at Lake Fenton. It was such a treat for us to spend the holidays at the Lefanowicz's -- swimming and boating in the summer, snowmobiling and playing cards in the winter. But the real reason these holidays were so special was because of Aunt Barabara's love for all of us. She paid such special attention to detail and made each and every guest feel so very special. Aunt Barabara showed such strength and determination -- hosting us with a smile and warmth, even if she had just worked a midnight shift or was dealing with the various challenges that we each face in our lives. She would put her own needs aside and focus on creating wonderful memories that will live with me forever. I am so very sorry that she has left us in this life, but please know that she will live forever in our memories and in the life lessons that she taught through her love.

Terry Krysl

November 25, 2011

Reading the biography I see her admirable traits and abilities in her children I have met. I think some of those traits have rubbed off on me through the children I have had as my friends. I will be praying for the family.

Bob Tushup

November 24, 2011

Barbara always extended love and respect to me and everyone around her. I have always expressed to my friends and family just how fortunate I was to have a In-Laws like Barbara & Bob. The "Matter of Fact" trait is at the top of many great memories. She was an inspiration and influence for me and I will miss her. With love and prayers, Bob Tushup

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Kimberly Bischoff Peters

November 24, 2011

I am so sorry for the loss of your beautiful Mother. I have so many fond memories of her and so many fun occasions spent at your home. I do enjoyed reading about her life...she lived it to the fullest with her children, with Bob, her work and so many interests. I can see her laughing ...she was so fun to be around. Please give my love to your siblings and to Bob who I have known since I was very little. You are all in my thoughts and in my prayers.

Left by: Kimberly Bischoff Peters (friend of family)

November 23, 2011

It is with love that I remember my big siser Barb. It seems like she has always been there for me. I will always remember the day Jerry and I brought our new born son Jeff home from the hospital. There she was, waiting for us to help get him settled. Being a new mom, I was so grateful for her help. She was a wonderful sister and I will always treasure our times together. I will miss you Barb. May God Bless you. All my love, Alberta

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