Mary Kaplenski, a beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on October 19, 2023, in Standish, MI. Born on November 30, 1929, in Hamtramck, MI, to Ukrainian immigrants, Joseph and Angeline Kosemba. Mary’s life was a testament to her strength, resilience, and unwavering love for her family and community.
Mary was a beacon of light to all who knew her. Her infectious sense of humor and innate ability to make everyone feel special were just a few of the qualities that made her so unforgettable. She was a woman of many talents, but her most cherished role was that of a loving matriarch to her large and adoring family.
Mary’s parents moved to Bentley, where she resided for the rest of her years. She was a proud member of the Resurrection of The Lord Catholic Church for over 60 years, where her faith was a cornerstone of her life. Mary’s love for God was evident in her daily actions and interactions with others, and she was a shining example of living one’s faith through service and love.
In her early years, Mary completed her bachelor’s degree in Social Work from Saginaw Valley State University at the age of 62, proving that it’s never too late to pursue your dreams. She worked for approximately 20 years at Bay Medical Center, where her dedication and compassion touched the lives of many. Mary’s determination and sense of humor brought a ray of sunshine to all that she encountered, and her waves of goodbye as she made her final journey, will be remembered fondly by all who knew her.
Mary had a zest for life that was truly infectious. She loved music and was known to tap and dance to the rhythm whenever she had the chance. An avid animal lover, Mary had a special place in her heart for all creatures great and small. But above all, Mary loved her family and God. Her devotion to her loved ones was unwavering, and her faith was the guiding force in her life.
Mary is survived by her son, Nicholas (Gail) Kaplenski, seven grandchildren, fifteen great-grandchildren, and eight great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph Kaplenski Jr., her parents, her sister, Olga (Kosemba) Francis, her brother, Nester Kosemba, her daughter, Roxann (Kaplenski) Woloszyk, and her son, David Kaplenski.
Mary Kaplenski was a woman of strength, love, and faith. Her legacy will live on in the hearts of her family and all those who were fortunate enough to know her. As we say our final goodbyes, we remember Mary not with sadness, but with gratitude for having had her in our lives. Her memory will forever be a blessing, and her spirit will continue to inspire us all.
Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Wednesday, October 25, 2023, at 11:00 AM at Resurrection of The Lord Catholic Church with Rev. Fr. Ronald Wagner presiding, and followed with burial at St. Mary’s Calvary Cemetery, Pinconning, Michigan. Friends may visit at Lee-Ramsay Funeral Home, Standish, Michigan, on Tuesday, October 24, 2023, from 4:00 to 8:00 pm and on Wednesday, October 25, 2023, friends may visit at the church from 10:00 am until the time of Mass.
