Wanda Samelak

Wanda S. Samelak, (aka Mother, Matka, Ciocia, Vonge, Vonga and Grandma) beloved matriarch and cherished member of her community, passed away peacefully on June 5, 2023 at the age of 96. She was born on Sept. 12, 1926 in Hamtramck, Michigan, to Stanley and Mary Gogolewski - and a sister and brother later followed. Wanda's journey in life saw her become business savvy and street smart while helping her great grandparents and parents run the family's grocery store on the Detroit-Hamtramck border. She worked diligently, applying her expertise, fluent in Polish and English, and using her magnetic personality to ensuring the success of the store. Most often she would share how the family would weekly produce Polish Kielbasa on a weekly basis. When Easter and Christmas season arrived, she would assist in producing over 100 pounds per day of their famous sausage for 10 days prior to the holiday. In April of 1946, Wanda met the love of her life Raymond Samelak. He was recently discharged from the Army. This meeting of chance took place at the Playdium bowling alley in Hamtramck. On November 15, 1947, Wanda and Ray were married and began their 66 year love affair of countless beautiful memories until his passing in 2013. Together, they purchased a home in Detroit and built a life filled with love, laughter, tradition and unwavering devotion to their family. She possessed a passion for cooking /baking Polish delicacies that brought immense joy to her family. She would lovingly prepare delicious dinners, with stuffed cabbage (Golabki), city chicken, meatballs with mushrooms gravy and birthday cakes and pies being her specialty. Wanda's creations were not only a feast for the taste buds but also a reflection of her deep love and thoughtfulness for her loved ones. One of the greatest gifts Wanda possessed was her ability to captivate others with her storytelling and quick wit. She had an enchanting way of painting vivid pictures with her words, transporting her listeners to far-off lands and times long past. Her stories were filled with wisdom, humor, and warmth, leaving everyone around her eager for more. Her laughter and infectious smile will forever be cherished by those fortunate enough to have known her. She leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion that will continue to resonate through the lives she touched. Wanda was predeceased by her loving husband, Raymond, and her son, David (Susan). She leaves behind her son Duane (Aimee), grandchildren Marc (Kristine), Chris (Rachel), Michael (Maria), and Megan (James Pecar), great grandchildren Sophia, Luke, and Roman, and honorary grandchildren Jacob, Ryan and Tyler. Wanda took great pride and joy in her role as mother, grandmother and great-grandmother - , showering all with affection, wisdom, and unwavering support. Her memory will forever be etched in their hearts. There are legendary stories of her ability to throw her slipper, with the accuracy of a Marine Corps Sharpshooter at 100 yards, when disciplining was needed. Including the skill to change direction of the slipper in midair! In Wanda S. Samelak, we find inspiration, love, and a remarkable zest for life. Her memory will continue to live on through the stories shared by her family and friends, reminding us all to embrace each day with joy, laughter, and a sprinkle of her witty charm. A funeral service to honor and celebrate Wanda's remarkable life will be held on Wednesday, June 14 at 10 am at St. Therese of Liseux in Shelby Twp. MI. She will be laid to rest beside her beloved husband, Raymond, at Resurrection Cemetery in Clinton Twp MI. Friends and family are invited to attend and pay their respects. Wanda S. Samelak will forever hold a special place in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. May her soul find eternal peace, and may her memory continue to bring comfort and inspiration to all whose lives she touched.

Wanda Samelak

September 12, 1926 - June 5, 2023