Julitta Stachowiak

A bright and vivacious presence in the lives of all who knew her, Julitta Stachowiak truly understood the secret to a life well lived. She never took a single moment for granted, and she was a shining example of selflessness and dedication to caring for others. There was nothing that was more important to Julitta than her family. Through all the ups and downs of life, she always held her loved ones close. Forever loved, Julitta and her memory will be cherished by those who knew her best.

The early 1950s are remembered as some of the most influential years for the United States. The economy was thriving following the end of WWII just a short time before, and the historical baby boom was underway. During these exciting years, there was happiness to be found in the household of Joseph and Doris (Wesholski) Stachowiak of Grand Rapids, Michigan, as they looked forward to the arrival of their second child. On October 8, 1950, they were overjoyed to welcome their daughter, Julitta Ann, into their hearts and lives.

Throughout her childhood, Julitta was a typical girl of her generation in many ways. The Stachowiak family made their home on Veto Street NW, a home where Julitta formed many of her fondest memories. Her father, Joseph, supported the family by working for Steelcase while her mother, Doris, was a devoted homemaker. Julitta was raised alongside her sister, Marcia, who was older than her by nine years. As a girl, Julitta often liked going to John Ball Zoo. She spent one summer as a member of the PatMar Club, a group of several young girls who enjoyed picnics and playing on the playground at the park while being supervised by Marcia and her friend, Pat. The Stachowiak family also loved going to Grand Haven and the beach.

Growing up, Julitta attended local schools, including St. Adalbert School and West Catholic High School. While in high school, she got her beloved dog, Clyde. Julitta and her girlfriend would enjoy walking all over town, often going to a radio station that held live broadcasts on the street. Julitta graduated from high school in 1968, then went on to pursue a certificate in dental hygiene.

Of all the things Julitta loved in life, she treasured her family above all else. After her father passed away in 1972, she made the choice to stay at home and dedicate herself to taking care of her mother. Caring for her mother was no easy task, but Julitta wasn’t the type to back down from a challenge. Holidays were always spent with family. Julitta and her mother hosted Thanksgiving, and Marcia and her family would host Christmas. Julitta was thrilled to watch her family grow to include her three nieces, Ruth, Eileen, and Linda, and her nephew, Mark. She adored them and doted on them whenever she could. Julitta loved having the girls for sleepovers, and they would paint their nails, fix their hair, and watch TV late into the night. She was known for her long phone calls, usually beginning with, “I know nothing.” Julitta cherished her time spent with family, and she considered herself blessed to be surrounded by so many loved ones.

Julitta nurtured a variety of hobbies to stay busy in her free time. She loved watching pro football, including the Detroit Lions and Dallas Cowboys, but she would turn it off if Tom Brady was on. Julitta was a vicarious reader of mystery novels. She also enjoyed watching crime shows on TV, and her favorite color was purple. Julitta could cook an excellent meatloaf, and she had a huge sweet tooth. Her favorite treats were coffee, Oreos, Coca Cola, ice cream, and donuts. Since salt wasn’t allowed in the house, Julitta made up for it by using lots of pepper on her food. She loved listening to the Beatles, Elvis, Queen, and Cher, and she had a soft spot for all animals. Julitta was a faithful parishioner at the Basilica at St. Adalbert. She was always happiest when spending time with her friends and family.

When looking back on the rich and overflowing life of Julitta Stachowiak, it is easy to see both her unwavering perseverance and her unconditional love for her family. Her sarcastic humor and sharp wit could bring a smile to anyone’s face. To know Julitta was to love her and admire her commitment to her loved ones. She was always willing to go above and beyond to serve others, and she truly made the most of every single moment she was given. Though she will be greatly missed, Julitta leaves behind a priceless collection of memories for her friends and family to hold near and dear to their hearts.

Julitta Ann Stachowiak, age 74, passed away at home April 10, 2025 with her loving family by her side. Julitta was born October 8, 1950 in Grand Rapids to the late Joseph and Doris (Wesholski) Stachowiak. She was also preceded in death by her brother-in-law, Edward Ostrowski; and great niece, Megan Ostrowski. Julitta is survived by her sister, Marcia Ostrowski; nephew and nieces, Mark (Rachel) Ostrowski, Ruth (Patrick) DeKorne, Eileen (Bill Landeck) Ostrowski, Linda (Gordon) Leys; and great nieces and nephews, Ryder (Alex), Sara, Angelina, Devin, Abigail, and Nathaniel. According to her wishes, cremation has taken place.