Alfreda Kudla

Alfreda Kudla, of Hamtramck, passed away on May 27, 2026 at the age of 79. She was a woman whose gentle heart, quiet strength, and deep faith touched everyone who knew her. She also carried a spirited independence — her familiar “don’t tell me what to do” spark — that made her uniquely herself and brought warmth, humor to those around her.. Born to Frank and Helen Kowalski, she grew up surrounded by family, faith, and the values that shaped her life. She later married Mitchell Kudla, sharing many years of love, partnership, and devotion. Her faith community at Our Lady Queen of Apostles was a cherished part of her life. She found joy singing in the Church Choir, serving with the Daughters of Isabella, and teaching catechism — especially the First Communion Class, where her patience, kindness, and steady presence left a lasting impression on countless children and families. She also took great pride in serving her community during elections. She enjoyed working at the precinct and later assisted with ballot counting for the Wayne County Board of Canvassers, offering her time with care, integrity, and her trademark determination to “do things the right way.” She loved to shop — whether browsing catalogs that arrived in the mail or heading out for a day of stores and errands. She was her daughter’s favorite shopping buddy, and together they made countless memories wandering aisles, comparing finds, and sharing quiet moments over simple purchases. On family vacations, her husband would joke that the only limit to their shopping was the space left in the trunk — yet somehow, everything always fit. At home, she expressed her love through the simple, meaningful things she enjoyed most — baking treats, sewing, and creating a warm, welcoming space for those she cared about. Above all, she treasured the time she spent with her grandchildren, Andrew and Jacob. Watching them grow was one of her greatest joys, and she celebrated every moment with them. She is survived by her daughter, Karen (Michael Scott) Tanner; her beloved grandsons, Andrew and Jacob; her faithful dog, Munchkin; her brothers‑in‑law, Leonard Kudla and Richard Kudla; her sisters‑in‑law, Pauline Kudla, Diane Kudla, and Donna Kudla‑Michalski; and many nieces and nephews, all of whom held a special place in her heart. She was preceded in death by her parents, Frank and Helen Kowalski; her husband, Mitchell Kudla; her sister, Camille Javello (Jim); and her in‑laws Jane Kudla, Sister Mary Joanette Kudla, Joseph Kudla, Lottie (Marian) Kobus, and Edward Kudla. She will be remembered for her kindness, her devotion, her independence, and the quiet, steady way she made life brighter for those around her. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of those she loved most. The family will greet friends at Mandziuk & Son Funeral Directors of Sterling Heights on Sunday, May 31st, from 3:00pm – 8:00pm. Rosary at 6:00pm. Funeral mass will be at Our Lady Queen of Apostles of Hamtramck on Monday, June 1st. Instate at 10:00am. Mass at 10:30am. Interment to follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery at 12:00pm. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Paul of the Cross Passionist Retreat & Conference Center, 23333 Schoolcraft Rd., Detroit, MI 48223.

Alfreda Kudla

March 24, 1947 - May 27, 2026