Marlene Joyce Baluci

Marlene Joyce Baluci, age 80, of Commerce Township, passed away on February 14, 2026, leaving behind a lifetime of love, devotion, and strength that her family and friends will cherish for years to come.

Marlene (Holowicki) Baluci was born on June 24, 1945, in Detroit to Chester and Joan Holowicki. Raised in Allen Park alongside her siblings, Cindy and Chester Jr., she grew up surrounded by family, faith, and the enduring values that guided her throughout her life. She attended St. Frances Cabrini Catholic School and graduated from All Saints High School in 1963. She later earned her bachelor's degree in education from Eastern Michigan University and, with characteristic determination, she returned to earn her master's degree.

It was at St. Frances Cabrini that she first met the boy who would become her husband and lifelong soulmate, John Baluci. Married there in 1969, they began a remarkable 57-year journey together, rooted in faith, steadfast love, and unwavering devotion. Together they raised two beloved children, John and Jennifer. Marlene was a devoted mother and a proud, hands-on grandmother who rarely missed a game, play, or milestone for her cherished grandchildren. Nothing brought her greater joy than cheering them on and celebrating their accomplishments. Her family was truly the center of her world.

As a dedicated educator in the Taylor School District, Marlene taught English and Journalism at John F. Kennedy High School, where she inspired generations of students and led unforgettable school trips to Europe that broadened young minds and hearts. She later served as principal of Hoover Middle School, guiding the school with steady leadership and a deep, abiding care for every student and staff member. Her unwavering commitment to education shone brightly throughout her distinguished four-decade career, leaving a lasting imprint on all who had the privilege to learn from and work alongside her.

Beyond her professional life, Marlene expressed her creativity and love through her renowned cake decorating, crafting beautiful and intricate cakes that became a treasured centerpiece at every family celebration. She was also a lifelong Detroit Red Wings fan. Her love for the Red Wings began as a young girl at the old Olympia Stadium; she faithfully followed her team as an enthusiastic and loyal supporter.

Marlene was the beloved wife of 57 years to John Baluci; loving mother of John (Avani) Baluci and Jennifer (Paul) Bonkowski; proud grandmother of Nicholas, Bryan, Marcus, Olivia, Jaya, and Anya; cherished sister of Cindy Heinlein and Chet (Lisa) Holowicki; and dear aunt to Todd (Amanda) Orzechowski, Chester Holowicki, and Drew (partner Cinamon) Holowicki.

Her legacy will live on in the family she nurtured, the students she guided, and the countless lives she touched with her kindness, wisdom, and enduring love.

Visitation will take place on Friday afternoon, February 20, from 1:30 to 4:00 at Lynch & Sons Funeral Directors in Milford, followed by a funeral service at 4:00. At 5:30, the family will host a dinner at Baker's in Milford.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital

https://www.stjude.org/donate/donate-to-st-jude.html?sc_icid=header-btn-donate-now