Joann Zelenak

Joanne was one of my favorite cousins. She babysat for my sibs and I and then was a friend when we all grew up. She was nine years older than me and gave me some lowdown on family events before my time. We stayed with her occasionally after we moved away from Detroit. She was extraordinarily kind. This picture is from 2003. I remember them both fondly. We'll miss her.

Mrs. Zelenak was a faith-filled woman. I knew her through my parents who were friends of hers through St. Margaret´s. From 2009 until my mom passed away in 2015 Mrs. Zelenak brought communion to my mom and dad almost every Sunday at their home. She provided my folks not only spiritual nourishment but she spent quality time with them listening to them, sharing stories about their kids with each other, and recalling old times. She was so kind to my sister and I when our parents were ill. I am grateful for her and all she did for my family. Rest in peace Mrs. Zelenak.

Joann was a beautiful member of our St. Margaret Women's Club. She was a kind and caring person, and a dear friend to all. She was elected president of the St. Margaret Altar Sodality in 1970, before it became the Women's Club. In 2017, she was voted Woman of the Year for her ongoing devotion to serving God and others. She will be greatly missed.