Obituary of Stella Schmelz

Stella Mae Gentz was born on October 20, 1918 in Blissfield, Michigan. She was one of seven children from the union of Ralph Gentz and Maude (Davy) Gentz. Stella spent her formative years in Blissfield. She met her first and only true love, Leo Schmelz and they were joined in marriage on May 3, 1958. Stella did not have any children of her own, but took a great deal of pride in raising her stepson, Russell's five children. Leo (Sharon) Schmelz, Edward (Ruth) Schmelz, Terry (Joanne) Schmelz, her grandchildren all currently reside in Monroe. Stella also has ten great grandchildren and ten great-great grandchildren with whom she enjoyed spending time. Stella spent many years performing housekeeping for several local families. She was a stickler for cleaning, and always kept a neat home. Stella will be most remembered for her attention to detail. Her grandchildren stated that she could work circles around them even when she was in her late 80's. Stella also had a knack for gardening. She enjoyed growing flowers especially roses and her own tomato plants. She shared many memories throughout the years with her four sisters: Ruth (Dee) Goetz of Adrian, Louise (Clyde) Saylar of Blissfield, Mabel Beagle, and Mildred Gentz of Tecumseh; and a brother: Albert (Elsie) Gentz of Blissfield. Stella Mae Schmelz age 90, passed away at 5:50am, Friday, February 27, 2009 at Fountainview of Monroe. She had been under the care of Heartland Hospice and Homecare. Her passing was preceded by her husband: Leo; a stepson: Russell Schmelz; a brother: Richard Gentz; and two grandchildren: Lauranne Schmelz and Russell Schmelz Jr. Friends may gather from 11:00am until a Celebration of her Life at 1:00pm, Tuesday, March 3, 2009 at Merkle Funeral Service, 2442 North Monroe Street, (734) 384-5185. The Rev. Rick Massingill pastor of the North Monroe Street Church of God Mountain Assembly will officiate. Procession will follow to Roselawn Memorial Park in LaSalle for burial. In lieu of flowers memorial donations are suggested to the Schmelz family. Online words of inspiration and comfort may be made by visiting www.merklefuneralservice.com and then selecting the Life Stories page.