Victoria Hendges (Stasiak)

With quiet faith, Victoria Hendges lived by example through her giving spirit, acts of kindness and as a woman who lovingly guided her family in all ways. She didn't place a price on material wealth or things, but lived simply by her convictions. More than anything, tending to the family she loved and serving her church was the best of blessings for Vicki which brought her the greatest joy. Thoughts of Vicki will bring loving smiles to those who knew and loved her while lasting memories will continue to be treasured in the days tahead.

From the world of fashion to the world to politics, forces clashed in the 1920s to produce one of the most explosive decades of the century. An age of prohibition, prosperity followed many new advancements, discoveries, and inventions of the day which greatly improved the American way of life. A sense of gaiety filled the air, and the Roaring Twenties challenged America’s once conservative nature all while bringing a sense of hope to the nation. Victoria's story began during this time of plenty in the riverfront city of Grand Rapids, Michigan. Born on September 2, 1920, she was the daughter of Stanley and Eva (Ciok) Stasiak, and one of seven children in the Stasiak household.

When her parents left their homeland of Poland, they set out for America in search of a hope and a future. Her mother settled in the West Virginia area while her father lived in Buffalo, New York. When circumstances brought them to Grand Rapids, Michigan, the course of Victoria's life was set in motion upon their meeting and marrying. Victoria's father held several jobs, but mostly worked in the plaster mines on the cities northwest side where they also made their home on Marion Street NW. With such a large family to provide and care for, her mother remained at home with Victoria and her siblings, Mary, Stell, Harriet, Joseph, Connie, and Helen.

As a young child, Vicki, like many children of this time, made up her own entertainment, games, and play. From an early age, she learned to sew and made clothing for her dolls. Faith played a vital role in Vicki's upbringing. Devoted to their Catholic faith, there was a point in time during Vicki's youth when she held the desire to become a nun. She attended the local schools, but with the onset of the Great Depression, times became a struggle, and Vicki's family was no exception. She left her schooling behind during the tenth grade to help support her family, which was a common occurrence during these days of hardship.

Life for Vicki changed in a wonderful way at the wedding of her sister, Mary. It was through this blessed time when she met James Hendges, a handsome young man who quickly stole Vicki's heart. They began dating and before long a budding romance developed. Shortly after her 19th birthday, James and Vicki shared their own vows of marriage on October 28, 1939, and happily became husband and wife at Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church.

James and Vicki set-up house on Garfield, remaining on the northwest side of the city. Nearly ten years went by before they welcomed the births of two daughters, Christine and Suzanne. They eventually built a new home on Edison Park where Victoria would remain for the rest of her days. She never "really" worked outside the home and devoted all of her time to making a good place to call home for James and the girls. He worked hard to support their family as a self employed auto mechanic. As a talented seamstress, sewing continued to be something Victoria enjoyed. Throughout the years she made several flower girl dresses, prom dresses and wool coats for her daughters. She was content to be there for her family, and as a mother was protective and loving, yet demanded only the best from them.

Vicki guided her family in faith which meant a great deal to her. She and James were founding members of Holy Spirit Catholic Church where they selflessly devoted their time and talents to the church since 1954. Vicki put her sewing skills to good use for the church, as well by making vestments and many baptismal gowns for family members. Always very active at church, she served as a member of the Altar Society and as a lunch lady for the church school.

Along with sewing, Vicki's other hobbies included cooking and baking. She was a great cook and wonderful baker. Everyone's favorites included her apple pies, butterscotch pie and banana bread, while breaded pork chops were her specialty. Vicki's preferred place to eat was Burger King for a quick dinner with her siblings. They remained very close and got together each week to keep in touch. However, when it came to fine dining, Vicki enjoyed going to Fingers and Duba's restaurants. Although she was never much for reading, she loved doing crossword puzzles and word searches. At the age of 54, Vicki went on to earn her GED in 1974 for which she was always grateful. She absolutely loved polkas, and even learned to play the organ in 2003 at the age of 83!

Vicki's scope of travel was pretty much limited to the state and her beloved northwest side. Family trips included camping up north at Interlochen and northern Michigan. She never flew in an airplane, and never wanted to. And the only way she said she's ever travel overseas was when they built a bridge to it!

Vicki will be lovingly remembered for her immeasurable contribution to family and community. In many ways, she defined the meaning of devoted wife, dedicated mother, loyal friend and a woman of devout faith. A true blessing, her generous spirit, giving nature and warmhearted ways was an inspiration and gift.

Mrs. Victoria Hendges, age 92, of Grand Rapids, passed away on Good Friday, March 29, 2013 at her home surrounded by her loving family, and Tigger. She was preceded in death by her husband, James in January of 2002; her sisters, Mary, Stell, and Harriet. She is survived by her children, Christine (Joe) Czarnopys and Suzanne (Steven) Cook; grandchildren, Eric Czarnopys, Lisa Czarnopys, Stephanie Cook, and Sam Cook; her brother, Joseph (Doris) Stasiak; sisters, Connie (Don) Hendges and Helen (Leo) Boruta; brother-in-law, Bill Sevic; many nieces and nephews.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be on Tuesday, April 2, 2013, 11:00 AM at the Parish of the Holy Spirit, 2239 Lake Michigan Drive NW. Relatives and friends may visit with Victoria's family at the Heritage Life Story Funeral Homes-Alt & Shawmut Hills Chapel, 2120 Lake Michigan Dr. NW on Monday, April 1, 2013 from 4-8 PM and one hour prior to the Mass on Tuesday. The Rosary will be prayed on Monday at 7:30 PM. Contributions to Spectrum Health Hospice or to the Holy Spirit Education Fund are appreciated. To read more about Victoria's life, share a memory and to sign her online guest book, please visit www.lifestorynet.com.