Obituary of Josephine "Jo" Ann Bach

Josephine A. Solomon was born on January 5, 1938 in Monroe, Michigan the daughter of the late Leo Solomon and Mary (Grancitelli) Solomon. She graduated from Monroe High School with the class of 1957. Babe as she was lovingly known by family and Jo to countless friends married Ralph C. Bach on May 20, 1961. The couple would share in the birth of one daughter, Andrea. In addition to being a supportive spouse and mother, Jo for several years worked as a secretary for the River Raisin Title Company. The family worshipped at St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church. To say the least, Jo’s personality was one of a kind. She was fun loving with a kind spirit. However, she stood tall for what she believed in and although she might be opinionated, she was always informative and convincing. In the early 1980’s, Jo became heavily involved with the Republican Party. She held many positions within the Monroe County Republican Women’s Club including President and Treasurer. Jo also served on the executive board of the Monroe County Republican Party, as a Precinct Delegate, and attended countless state and national conventions. Jo worked tirelessly on many local, state and national campaigns throughout the years. Her dedicated work would earn her numerous awards from party officials including “Republican of the Year” and “Republican Woman of the Year.” Babe enjoyed being surrounded by cousins, nieces, nephews, and other family, but her greatest pride of all, was that of her grandson Ryan. Josephine “Jo” A. Bach, 78, of Monroe, passed away peacefully at Promedica Monroe Regional Hospital at 1:45am on Sunday, December 25, 2016 after a long illness. Her passing was preceded by her parents: Mary (Grancitelli) and Leo Solomon. She is survived by her loving husband of fifty-five years: Ralph of Monroe; daughter: Andrea (Mark) Stewart of Mount Vernon, Ohio; grandson: Ryan Stewart of Mount Vernon; and step grandson: Michael Stewart. Friends may gather from 2:00pm-8:00pm on Thursday, December 29, 2016 at Merkle Funeral Service, 2442 North Monroe Street (734) 384-5185. She will Lie-in-State at St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church, 502 West Front Street on Friday, December 30, 2016 from 10:00am until the Mass of the Resurrection following at 11:00am. Father Phil Ching pastor of the church will officiate. Procession will follow to St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery for inurnment. Online guests may leave words of comfort and inspiration, send a floral arrangement or share a photo by visiting www.merklefs.com.