Elizabeth Jean Mager Duda

While very accomplished in many ways herself, much of Elizabeth’s life was devoted to those around her, and she derived considerable pleasure and satisfaction from assisting others to achieve their utmost. Friends, family, and acquaintances were graced by her loving, attentive, and warm personality, her cheerful disposition, and her beaming smile. She was born in Pennsylvania on January 13, 1922.

While still in her teens and then living in Detroit, she lost her mother at an early age. Elizabeth took on the responsibility of managing the family household while also assisting in operating the family business. Recreation and holidays with brothers John, Andrew, George, and Joseph, and sisters Mary, Pauline, Anne, and Irene were joyous occasions interrupting long periods of intense work. Her father John presided over all with a twinkle in his eye, and much merriment in greeting his many grandchildren. Sunday drives and time spent relaxing on Belle Isle were a special source of enjoyment.

A new phase of her life began in the post-World War II years when Elizabeth married Clifford in 1950. They created a wonderful learning environment for their children Kenneth and Nancy in their Michigan home. Both took pride in their strong and active roles in nurturing their children’s academic, sporting, and professional successes. In addition, Elizabeth engaged in community events, met regularly with a group of neighborhood friends and fellow church members, and participated in charitable and fundraising activities. Elizabeth and Clifford remained married until parted by Cliff’s death in 1987.

Always inquisitive and an avid reader, Elizabeth remained fully informed of national and international current events, enjoyed many books and periodical publications, and closely listened to a variety of radio broadcasts discussing key events. She was also an excellent cook, and derived satisfaction from creating mouthwatering dishes for family and friends. Much of the vegetables prepared during the summer months came from the backyard garden she and Nancy tended with care.

When her son Ken moved to South Dakota, Elizabeth’s spirit of adventure and confidence in being able to overcome any obstacles inspired her to join him in moving halfway across the country at the age of 77. Though it was difficult to be so far from her grandchildren Rebecca, Jessica, and Marcus, she readily adapted to this new location and made many new friends while remaining in contact with numerous others acquired during earlier years. Regular telephone calls with widely distributed family members maintained close bonds.

When riding around town during the warm season, she always took special delight in observing the progress of evolving flower gardens. She enjoyed traveling around Sioux Falls and nearby communities for musical events, dining, and shopping. Whether the temperature was 40 below zero or 95 above, Elizabeth adapted without complaint to whatever harsh conditions were encountered and simply went about her business.

Elizabeth experienced a variety of health problems, especially in her later years. However, she was a tenacious fighter who enjoyed life, and especially her family, so fully that she always managed to overcome increasing physical adversity and remained living at home until she passed away in Sioux Falls on September 8, 2011, about four months before her 90th birthday. She had been looking forward to enjoying some fresh garden tomatoes and sweet corn again that evening with her son during a week of near-perfect temperatures and cheery sunshine.

Elizabeth radiated a joyful peace and tranquility that was absorbed by all she encountered, enriching many lives through her innate goodness. Her wonderful gentle spirit, quick mind, and insightful guidance will be greatly missed by all who knew her. She returned to Michigan to rejoin her husband in final rest.

There will be Visitation on Sunday, September 11, 2011 from 4-7pm at:

The Harry J. Will Funeral Home

37000 Six Mile Road (East of I-275 and Newburgh Roads)

Livonia, MI 48152

(734)591-3700

The Funeral Mass will be on Monday, September 12, 2011; In-State 9:30 and a 10:00am Mass at:

St. Valentine Catholic Church

14841 Beech Daly Road

Redford, MI 48239

(313)532-4394