Leonore Katherine Budzinski

Leonore Katherine (Nigra) Budzinski, 96 of Sandusky, passed away peacefully Sunday, December 29, 2024 at Stonegate Village Assisted Living and Memory Care.
Leonore was born October 16, 1928 in Laurium, MI to the late John and Sadie (Hodges) Nigra. She graduated from Ishpeming High School in 1945. She received her degree as a Registered Nurse from Henry Ford in 1949 and graduated as Vice President of her class of the School of Nursing and Hygiene. Leonore married Edward Budzinski on April 30, 1960 in Negaunee, MI. They were married for 62 years.
Leonore had always wanted to be a nurse, and after her graduation from high school she began her pursuit of her coveted dream. The first year was spent at Northern MI University in Marquette and then she began her trek down state to Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit. Leonore loved her days in nursing school, making lifelong friendships and working hard to develop her skills to become the best nurse ever. Leonore worked at Henry Ford hospital until 1961 where she was the head nurse on the Pulmonary Floor.
Leonore lived her long rich life devoted to her family and her faith. She will be remembered for her independence, her opinions and her spunk. Leonore had a kind heart and was always interested in what others were doing. One of her greatest joys was watching her children in sporting events. She cherished the time being their biggest fan and creating friendships with other families. She extended her enthusiasm for sports and attending musical events to her grandchildren. She had many lifelong friendships with neighbors and was always welcoming to newcomers in groups and into her family. She found the positive in people and situations.
Leonore loved to read and enjoyed the daily challenge of doing the Wall Street Journal Crossword puzzle. She loved entertaining, hosting many holiday parties and was always willing to try a new recipe.
Leonore is survived by her children, Mary Beth (Kurt) Thoman, John (Whitney) Budzinski and Steven (Jean) Budzinski five grandchildren Sarah and Nicolas Thoman, John, "JP" and Riley Budzinski and Sandra (Ethan) Plunkett; two great-grandchildren, Morgan and Norman Plunkett: one brother-in-law Thaddeus Budzinski and many nieces and nephews.
Leonore was preceded in death by her husband, Edward, brother in law Chester Budzinski and sisters in laws Mary Ann Budzinski and Ann Budzinski.
In lieu of flowers, please send any memorial donations to Residential Hospice, 1681 Woodbridge Park Ave, Lapeer, MI 48446.
The family will receive visitors from 10 - 11 am on Wednesday, January 22, 2025 at Holy Family Parish, St. Joseph Catholic Church, Sandusky.
A Memorial Mass will be held at 11:00 am on Wednesday, January 22, 2025 at Holy Family Parish, St. Joseph Catholic Church with Father Bob Schikora officiating.
Friends may share an online condolence at www.marshfuneral.com.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Marsh Funeral Chapel, 396 S. Sandusky Rd, Sandusky, MI 48471. Phone 810-648-2244.