Obituary of Josephine Gelso

Josephine Clara Gelso was born in Monroe, Michigan on August 31, 1927. She was one of ten children the daughter of the late Anthony Gelso and Catherine (Terrasi) Gelso. She attended St . Joseph Catholic School. For over 20 years, Josephine was employed as a custodian for the Arthur Lesow Community Center. She enjoyed her interaction with those coming and going from the center until retiring in 1993. Josephine enjoyed staying active. As a young woman she enjoyed softball and bowling. For many years she was active with St. Joseph Parish. She helped with the church festival and she assisted with bingo when she wasn't playing. Josephine was always on the go. She loved to watch horse racing, the Detroit Tigers, the Super Bowl, old movies, and General Hospital. She enjoyed gambling and playing penny poker. Josephine was well-known for her feisty personality and her ability to get things done. She was simple, generous and helpful. Josephine was an excellent cook and her Italian Spaghetti and pasta dishes were truly delightful, but she was just as pleased to take friends and family out to dinner. Josephine Clara Gelso, age 88 of Monroe passed away at Promedica Monroe Regional Hospital at 10:56am on, Sunday, March 13, 2016. In addition to her parents her passing was preceded by one brother: Michael Gelso; three sisters: Mary Beaudry, Rose Johnson, and Angeline Gelso; two sisters-in-law: Jeanne Gelso and Wanda Gelso Bergmooser; five brothers-in-law: Jim Tipton, Clarence Savage, Howard Poupard, Arthur Johnson, and Milton Beaudrie. To cherish her memory she leaves her siblings: Grace (Donald) Drewior of Frenchtown, Russell Gelso, Nancy Savage, and Ann Poupard all of Monroe; and Virginia (Winston "Pete") Peterson of Frenchtown; and a host of nieces and nephews. Friends may gather from 9:00am until 11:00am on Thursday, March 17, 2016 at St. Anne Catholic Church, 2420 North Dixie Highway. The Mass of the Resurrection will follow at 11:00am with Father Anthony Camilleri officiating. Procession will follow to St. Joseph Cemetery for burial. Arrangements have been entrusted to Merkle Funeral Service; South Monroe 14567 South Dixie Highway (734) 241-7070. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations for those who desire are suggested to the family to assist with funeral expenses. Online guests may leave words of inspiration and comfort or share a photo by visiting www.merklefs.com and then selecting the Online Tributes page.