Eileen Marguerite Fillinger

Eileen Marguerite Fillinger, a woman whose life was a testament to faith, family, and selfless service, passed away peacefully in her sleep on July 10, 2025, just shy of her 91st birthday. Born on July 19, 1934, in Detroit, Michigan, to Henry and Elanora Schabath, Eileen was the third of fifteen children, a role that undoubtedly shaped her lifelong dedication to nurturing and caring for others. Eileen spent her early years in Detroit. She later married her husband Stanley and moved to the Warren suburbs, which became a cherished home for the remainder of her life, a place where she built a family, a career, and countless lasting friendships. For 36 years, Eileen was a familiar and friendly face as a Department Manager at Farmer Jack's, where her unwavering dedication and warm personality brightened the days of many. She approached her work with a strong ethic she generously shared with everyone who spent time with her. Even after her initial retirement, her desire to serve others led to roles with Interfaith Volunteers and the Social Security office. Her retirement, reluctantly hastened by the COVID-19 pandemic, never fully extinguished her passion for connecting with people. A Life Defined by Love and Service Family was the cornerstone of Eileen's life. She was a loving, generous mother to her six children and extended her boundless love to countless "bonus kids," creating a truly expansive and inclusive family. She drew immense strength from her deep faith, which guided her actions and inspired her quiet acts of generosity. Eileen was known for her willingness to help those in need, offering her time, resources, and unwavering support without seeking recognition. Beyond her work and family, Eileen found joy in simple pleasures. She shared a special bond with her best friend, Nancy Czarnecki, with whom she enjoyed countless walks, finding both camaraderie and a healthy outlet. She also cultivated a love for calligraphy, sewing, and ceramics, expressing her artistic side. Eileen had always been interested in politics, and in her later years, she developed a keen interest in reading books about all the "players," always seeking to understand the world around her. Eileen also cherished the simple joys of life: camping in her younger years, admiring flowers, long talks on the phone, sending and receiving handwritten notes and cards, and, most of all, a good family gathering like the cherished Schabath family picnics. A True Sports Fan Eileen had a lifelong passion for sports. She loved all the Detroit teams and attended many Pistons and Tigers games. She and Nancy especially enjoyed attending U of M football games together. Her dedication extended to coaching Catholic girls high school basketball, and she remained an avid watcher and supporter of ladies' basketball. She was also an avid watcher of all her children's and grandchildren's sports. A true fan of Detroit sports, she loved the Tigers, attending many games in their various "parks" over the years. She also loved the Detroit Red Wings, even attending the momentous parade in Hart Plaza in Detroit. With one last prayer, she declared that this year was the Lions' year, remaining a true fan to the end. Family & Legacy Eileen was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Stanley, who passed away in 1981. She also joins her cherished children, Deborah Hlavaty, Linda Briggs (and her husband Lester), and youngest son Stanley the 3rd, affectionately known as Buddy. She was further preceded in death by her granddaughter, Vanessa Sexton, her parents, Henry and Elanora Schabath, and her dear siblings and their partners: Pauline Norkiewicz, Mary, Nora (and her husband Harold Fry), Dan (and his wife Sandra), Larry (and his wife Mary-Lou), her big sister Kay Asaro (with her husband Mario), and Eugene's wife, Grace Schabath. She is survived by her loving sisters, Rose and Florence, and devoted brothers, Mike (Kim), Eugene, Marty (Trish), Lenny, and Charlie (Cheryl), and brother-in-law Eddie Norkiewicz. Eileen leaves behind in forever pieces: * The family of her predeceased daughter, Deborah Hlavaty, including her children: Nathan (Robin), Amber Hlavaty, and Justin Hlavaty. Amber is the loving mother of Jayden. Nathan is the loving father of Natalie, Remy, Holden, and Sydney, and Natalie's daughter Iris, Eileen's great-great-grandchild. * Her daughter, Teresa Belczynski (and her husband Joseph). Teresa's predeceased daughter, Vanessa, leaves behind her children: Skylar, Tessa, and Blake. Skylar Bodette (and her husband Cody) are the loving parents of Devan, Cody, and William. * Her son, Keith Fillinger (and his former wife Valarie), and Valarie's children, Cris Solvel and Jessica Dempsey. Cris is the loving father to Aidan. Jessica (with partner John Paul Cocuzza) is the loving mother of Austin, Autumn, Shawn, and Skylar Marie. * Her daughter, Dawn Fillinger, and Dawn's son, Reed Fillinger. Reed is deeply missing his other parental figure in his special bond with his Nana. She also leaves behind countless grieving nieces, nephews, and friends. Eileen's presence touched the lives of many, leaving an indelible mark that will continue to resonate through the future. Her legacy of unwavering faith, profound generosity, and boundless love will be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Eileen Marguerite Fillinger

July 19, 1935 - July 10, 2025