Barbara Jean Strong

Barbara "Barb" Jean Strong, age 81, was born to eternal life Nov. 17, 2011, surrounded by her loved ones, in Henderson. She was born Nov. 5, 1930, in Shiawassee County, Mich., to the late Michael and Rose Guza. Barb will be dearly missed by her devoted husband, Robert Strong, her best friend, lake lover, traveling partner and constant companion. Raised in Flint, Mich., Barb married Don Lefanowicz and raised four children in Fenton, Mich. Barb's nurturing way led her to a career in nursing, graduating from Hurley School of Nursing in 1951. She worked the "third" shift at the hospital so she could be home with her children after school. It was always family that mattered to her. In 1978, Barb married Bob Strong, and her life became truly complete. Sharing in the pleasures of living by lakes, rivers and grand casinos, rooting for the Detroit sports teams – Go Pistons! Barb and Bob have traveled and enjoyed their children and grandchildren. Settling in Henderson in 2004, they found a home base. Barbara is also survived by her children, Mark Lefanowicz (Katherine), Kris Kielian, Craig Lefanowicz (Jennifer) and Lynn Tushup (Robert); her stepchildren, Matthew Strong (Cristina), Michael Strong (Betty) and Timothy Strong; and her grandchildren, Maxwell Lutz, Libby, Becca and Molly Lefanowicz, Michael and Brianne Lefanowicz, Taylor Tushup, Adam Munoz and Alex Tushup, Caitlynn and Matthew Strong Jr., Zachary and Jake Strong, Maxwell, and Dylan and Seth Strong; her sisters, Rose DeMarais and Alberta Hazelrigs (Jerry); and her brothers, Michael Guza (Pat), Donald Guza (Sendy) and David Guza (Carolyn). She was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Joanne Dobrin; brother, Ronald Guza; brother-in-law, James DeMarais; and stepson, Kenneth Strong. Friends and family are invited to a memorial service at 1 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 29, at Palm Mortuary, 800 S. Boulder Highway, Henderson. An additional funeral Mass/memorial service will be offered at St. John the Evangelist in Fenton next summer. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Shriners Hospitals for Children, c/o Mark Lefanowicz, 3372 Hermosa Way, Lafayette, CA 94549.

Arrangements under the direction of Palm Boulder Highway Mortuary, Henderson, NV.