Theresa Punsalan

Theresa B. Punsalan, a devout Catholic, and beloved mother and grandmother, passed away on August 15, 2023, at the age of 88. She was born on October 7, 1934, in Buffalo, NY, the cherished daughter of Martin and Helen (Murphy) McGowan.
Theresa's journey was one marked by dedication, love, and service. She met her true love, Ernesto Punsalan, on a blind date - and the two were united in marriage in a small family ceremony on September 16th, 1963. Their bond was a source of inspiration to all who knew them.
As a young adult, Theresa started her career as a surgical technician at Mercy Hospital in Buffalo, NY. Once she met and married Ernesto, their family became her main priority, and over the next decade they were blessed with five children. During that time, they moved from Baltimore to Houston, then Syracuse, and finally settled in Elyria, OH during Ernesto's surgical residency. Once settled in Elyria, Theresa raised five children while running her husband's medical office. Her commitment to her work touched countless lives, and her compassionate nature left a lasting impact on those who knew her. Theresa retired and moved to Michigan upon her husband's passing.
Outside of her professional pursuits, Theresa's heart belonged to her faith and her community. An active and dedicated parishioner of The National Shrine of The Little Flower Basilica Catholic Church in Royal Oak, MI, Theresa found solace and inspiration in her spiritual life. Her steadfast involvement and contributions enriched the lives of those around her. She made many cherished friends along the way in her later years through the local church community.
Theresa leaves behind a legacy of love and dedication to her church and family. She will be greatly missed by her children: Ellen (Dave) Nager, Ernie (Robin) Punsalan, Elizabeth (Jerod) Swallow, Rick Punsalan, and Robert Punsalan. Additionally, she leaves behind six grandchildren who she was so proud of: Jordan, Cory, Danielle, Manny, Gavin, and Den.
She is reunited in eternity with her beloved husband, Ernesto, as well as her parents, Martin and Helen, and her many siblings.
A Funeral Mass in honor of Theresa's life will be held at The National Shrine of The Little Flower Basilica Catholic Church on Friday, August 25, 2023, at 10 a.m. The family kindly requests that you share your cherished memories of Theresa on the website www.sullivanfuneraldirectors.com