Sissy Marie Appleba

Sissy Marie Appleba, age 36 of Canton, died Tuesday, June 15, 2021 at Beaumont Hospital in Wayne, Michigan. She was born on September 14, 1984 in Detroit, Michigan, daughter of Barbara Ann (nee: Michael) Berletic, and the late Frederick James Appleba.

Coming into the world a little early,…she may have been a preemie, but Sissy was definitely the quintessential spitfire. She possessed a feisty quality that followed her through life and always made things interesting. Yet for as spirited and lively as she could be, Sissy also embodied a tenderness and compassion,…especially witnessed in the care she extended to babies and small children. There was truly something special that drew them to her, and she to each of them as well. It was, indeed, a warmth and kindness that permeated their little spirits and enveloped them like a cozy blanket.

As for some of Sissy’s notable and favorite things in life, right near the top would have to be her affinity for hats. Numbering over 50 in her collection,…she didn’t simply accrue them, but she donned them as well most everywhere she went. Always one to be in touch with the latest trends and fashion statements, her eclectic hat collection simply helped to embellish whatever statement she was making on that day,…and she definitely looked “fiiiiine!”

Sissy was a collector of baseball cards as well, a pastime she enjoyed sharing with her dad. While on the subject of collecting, perhaps nobody out there had a more comprehensive, nor impressive, collection than Sissy of the iconic superhero, Batman. If it had anything to do with Batman, chances are Sissy owned it,…or at least, had it on her wish list, for sure. Then there was that period when she delved into the world of Pokémon and would chase them all over town. She’d be in the car with her mom and suddenly shout, “Stop so I can get this Pokémon.” Barbara would simply offer up a chuckle and pull over.

Sissy was cool about everything. She was definitely better looking than her brothers,…her hair was on point (literally),…and her outfits were always a perfect fit. Sporting her own brand and style, Sissy had it goin’ on. She most certainly had “Game” and was known more affectionately by many as “Rico Suave!”  Her eldest cousin referred to Sissy as the calm, cool & collected one.

Diagnosed in her early 20’s with Rheumatoid Arthritis, sadly the disease was already well-advanced which meant her pathway going forward was going to be wrought with struggles and challenges,…yet Sissy handled it all with immense grace and strength. She truly set an example for everyone on the importance of working through your battles instead of around them. Throughout her latest hospitalization, that feisty nature of Sissy’s came through again,…this time due to the hunger pangs she was experiencing. She made the request of her mom to stop and pick her up some McDonald’s (to bring into the ICU, mind you), to which her mother inquired, “Aren’t they feeding you here?” Which garnered Sissy’s response, “Yea, but not enough. I’m hungry!”

From a bit of the cute side, Sissy’s style persona was also enhanced through her other passion,…Shoes. Most all gals have a love for shoes, at least on some level,…and Sissy was no exemption. Her collection was rife with all sorts and styles of footwear, all of which complemented those awesome hats of hers. But in a more poignant moment from the hospital came a statement to her mom when she said, “Momma, I’m going to need a new pair of shoes when I get out of here.” Even in the hospital, Sissy was still mindful of lookin’ Fly!

From the heart of her mother comes, “The greatest thing about my daughter was her ability to have people fall in love with her instantly. If you looked into her beautiful blue eyes, you were mesmerized. No joking,…it was unbelievable unless you experienced it or saw it for yourself.” It’s been said that kind eyes are simply a reflection from the heart,…and that couldn’t have been truer than it was for Sissy.

A loving soul that has left us far too soon,…Sissy’s absence leaves quite a chasm, but one that is easily bridged with love and memories,…both of which remain in the hearts of all who were blessed to know this amazing young woman. Sissy touched a multitude of hearts and souls in her journey through life and imparted the best of herself to all she engaged. She will be missed beyond expression and loved beyond measure.     

Sissy was the beloved daughter of Barbara (Joseph) Berletic and the late Frederick Appleba. Dearest sister of Barbara (Sean) Madden, Michael (Kristy), Frederick, and Mike (Ashley) Bates. Loving aunt of Bryan, Kayla, Bradin, Shealeigh, Alyssa, Everett, Maci, Savannah, Mike, and Aurora. 

Visitation for Sissy will be held Saturday, June 19th from 1-6 pm at the D.S. Temrowski & Sons Funeral Home, 30009 Hoover Road, Warren, MI 48093.

Please be advised that the family requests that all wear a mask while indoors for the visitation. 

Please share memories of Sissy at her guest book below.