Obituary of Estella Dusseau

On May 6, 1924, Estella "Stella" Marie Scznsny entered this world in Monroe, the daughter of Polish immigrants, Alexander and Mary (Cuipak) Scznsny. At age 90, she passed away at 12:10pm on Thursday, July 17, 2014 at Fountain View of Monroe, where she had resided the past three years. Stella was baptized at St. Joseph Catholic Church and also attended grade school there through the eighth grade. After retirement she obtained her GED through Adult Education, which she was very proud of. Stella was a lifelong member of St. Joseph Parish and a member of the Altar Society. She enjoyed serving in many other capacities as well. Her devout Catholic faith carried her through this life with unwavering confidence. Stella was a member of the Comboni Missions Auxillary and a retired member of the RSVP of Monroe County. One of Stella's greatest joys in life was having her family around; especially babies, youngsters, and dogs. Playing cards and games were some of her favorite pastimes. She laughed very easily and she could take teasing with the best of them. Her silliness kept those around her amused. She learned a great work ethic early-on and continued that throughout her life. Compassion and giving were her greatest attributes, always helping those people less fortunate, even willing to give away her last dime. Stella owned and operated many businesses in Monroe, starting in the late 1930's and continuing on through the 1950's. She worked at Bazley's Meat Market for many years retiring in 1980. On August 16, 1954 Stella married Vincent Swiderski, Sr. He preceded her in death on July 15, 1962. On January 26, 1963 Stella married Gerald J. Dusseau. He preceded her in death on March 8, 1989. From her marriage to Vincent, Stella obtained three stepchildren: Vincent Jr., (Glenna), Leon (Alice), and Cecelia (Edward McCormick Sr.) who all preceded her in death. She has a host of extended family from this marriage, including her step grandson: Edward (Karen) McCormick Jr. of Temperance. From her marriage to Gerald, Stella obtained four stepsons: Bill (Dolores) of LaPorte, Indiana, Jerry (Isabel) of Carona, California, Dave (Jo Bernice) of Atlanta, Michigan, Doug of Little Rock, Arkansas, whom all survive. She also obtained a daughter: Liz (Jeff) Heiden of Monroe whom she adopted after marrying Gerald, loving and raising her as her own, and she survives. Stella has a multitude of extended family from this marriage including grandchildren: Aaron and Ryan Mominee, Lindsay (Mark) Heiden Whitman, Kurt (Jenna Lange) Heiden, Cory Heiden, Donald Dusseau (Valerie), Lamont Dusseau (Stephanie), Dawn (Ray) Dusseau Roberts, Debbie (Tony) Dusseau Wood, David Dusseau II, and Bernie Dusseau. She also is survived by her sister: Elizabeth Pietszak; sister-in-law: Anetta McGoveren; eight great grandchildren; four great-great grandchildren; and many, many close nieces and nephews. Her passing was preceded by her parents, her husbands, her brothers: Adam (Ruth) Scznsny and Joe (Pat) Scznsny, her sisters: Juliana (Pete Sr.) Katzaroff, Jeanette (John) Tracey, Alice (Frank Sr.) Grochowski, and many infant siblings. Friends may gather from 2:00-8:00pm, Sunday, July 20, 2014 at Merkle Funeral Service, South Monroe; 14567 South Dixie Highway (formerly Bennett) 734-241-7070. A Rosary will take place at 6:00pm led by the Comboni Ladies Auxillary. She will lie-in-state from 9:00am until the Mass of the Resurrection at 10:00am, Monday, July 21 at St. Joseph Church, 937 East Second with Father James Smalarz concelebrating. Procession will follow to Roselawn. In lieu of flowers memorials are suggested to the Comboni Ladies Auxillary, 107 Standish Drive, Monroe, Michigan 48162. Online guests may leave condolences at www.merklefs.com, Online Tributes page.