Elaine Marie Dzendzel

A life well-lived is a life well-loved, and Elaine Marie Dzendzel embodied both with witty humor, adventure, feistiness and an unyielding curiosity for the world around her. A devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and cherished friend, Elaine embraced every moment with an open heart and a passion for adventure.
Born in Detroit, Michigan, to Thomas and Alice Roberts, Elaine spent her childhood in Ferndale, where she cultivated her sense of adventure and love for history. After graduating from Royal Oak High School in 1952, she dedicated years of service to AAA, then Consumers Energy before retiring in 1990. But retirement was just the beginning of her greatest adventures.
With her beloved husband, George, by her side, Elaine explored the far reaches of the world-from the vast landscapes of the United States and Canada to the storied streets of Europe, Russia, China, Australia and South America. Her love of travel was matched only by her fascination with the past. As an avid antique enthusiast, collector and dealer, Elaine found joy in the beauty of history, particularly in the delicate craftsmanship of antique dolls. She was a proud member of Dolls and Friends of Royal Oak until Elaine and George relocated to Tellico Village in East Tennessee. There she joined the East Tennessee Doll club sharing her passion with like-minded collectors, who became life-long friends and partners in many memorable shenanigans. Elaine was a member of the local quilters club, honing her skills to produce numerous works of art for family and friends. Elaine loved playing a boisterous board or card game when together her family and friends. Whether you wanted to or not, you played!
Elaine's spirit of adventure and appreciation for beauty were woven into the fabric of her family life. She raised her children-- Dennis (Debbee), Thomas, James (Amy), Janet (Bill) Forge, Paul (Tracy)--with love, laughter, and a sense of wonder that lives on in them and her six adoring grandchildren--Jacob, Julie, Jenna, Michelle, Dylan and Blake. Though she now joins George, her loving husband of 60 years, in eternal peace, Elaine's legacy remains. Her warmth, her stories, and her relentless adventurous spirit will continue to inspire all who knew her. Those who knew her will never forget Elaine or Mrs. Dzendzel. She taught us to embrace the journey, cherish history, and find joy in life's smallest treasures.
A memorial mass to celebrate Elaine's life will be held at Guardian Angels Catholic Church, 581 E. 14 Mile Rd, Clawson, MI 48017, on Tuesday, February 18, at 10:30 AM. In-state visitation will begin at 10:00 AM. The Mass will be livestreamed on the Guardian Angels Catholic Church Facebook page.
In honor of Elaine's giving spirit, memorial donations in her name may be made to the American Heart Association.
Elaine's story does not end here; it continues in every adventure we take, every treasure we find, and every moment we cherish with those we love.