MaryLee Giza's Obituary
MaryLee (O’Polka) Giza, age 68, passed away on Friday, November 3, 2017 at the Poppen Residence. She was born on December 28, 1948 to Edward J. and Leona G. O’Polka in Muskegon. MaryLee will long be remembered for her enduring love of the warm sun, refreshing waters and the soft sandy beaches of Pere Marquette, Stony Lake, and Maui, Hawaii. Her incredibly detailed recollection of family, friends, and significant events was marveled by those closest to her. She can be described as incredibly witty, funny, well informed, caring, daring, a bit mischievous and someone you wanted to be around. MaryLee was a maker and keeper of many beloved friends. Her philosophy on life was “There is always, always, always, something to be thankful for.” On May 15, 1970 she married the love of her life, Ronald J. Giza and they spent 47 happy years together. Survivors include her husband, Ronald; son, Andrew (Catherine) Giza and grandson, Webster Giza of Phoenix, AZ; siblings, Jane Hobing of South Bend, IN, Richard (Dawn) O’Polka of Wauwatosa, WI, Annie O’Polka of Hickory Corners, MI, Fred (Polly) O’Polka of Phoenix, AZ; brother-in-law, Robert (Gail) Giza of South Lyon, MI; and many nieces, nephews and cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents and brother-in-law, William Hobing. VISITATION with the family will take place on Wednesday, November 8, 2017 at The Walburn Chapel, 1547 W. Sherman Blvd. (231-759-8565) from 6:00 – 8:00 PM with a Rosary Service starting at 7:30 PM. A MASS OF CHRISTIAN BURIAL will take place on Thursday, November 9, 2017 at St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church (2929 McCracken St.) at 11:00 AM with Fr. Charles Hall presiding. Burial will take place in St. Mary’s Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations in MaryLee’s name can be made to the Poppen Residence through The Harbor Hospice Foundation. Feel free to share a memory with the family at www.sytsemafh.com.
What’s your fondest memory of MaryLee?
What’s a lesson you learned from MaryLee?
Share a story where MaryLee's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with MaryLee you’ll never forget.
How did MaryLee make you smile?
