Melvin Martin Wolicki

It is with heavy hearts we announce the unexpected passing of Melvin Wolicki on October 28, 2024. Melvin, fondly known as Mel, was born to Henry and Antoinette Wolicki on February 22, 1945, in Detroit, Michigan. Mel was a graduate of Cody High School in Detroit and attended Wayne State and Lawrence Technological University before he became a skilled tool and die maker for over 30 years.

One of the most challenging times in his life was when he was drafted into the Army from 1966 to 1968. He found basic training at Fort Bragg, NC, grueling, and easily adapted into his routine while stationed in Germany. He had many fond memories of his time in the service.

In 1969, Mel met the love of his life, Rosalie, at a dance in Dearborn. Excited to start their life together, the two were married on October 17, 1970, and devoted the next 54 years to their marriage.

Mel and Rosalie bought their first home in Redford and moved to Livonia in 1975. They couldn’t wait to start a family of their own, and their children meant the world to them: Sandra, Mark, and Lisa. Mel’s favorite role was that of grandparent to Dominic, Luke, Henry, Johnny, Ryan, Gemma, and Audrey.

Although Mel loved biking, walking, traveling, and working on projects around the house, he most treasured his time with his grandchildren. Playing golf, going to the movies, making breakfast, and attending his grandchildren’s football, basketball, baseball, and hockey games were his joy. Mel had a big heart, which was shown by the way he loved his family and friends. He was known for being generous, committed, fun, friendly, and always had a great sense of humor. Mel was a devoted fan of Michigan football and the Detroit Tigers, Lions, and Red Wings.

Mel is survived by his wife Rosalie Wolicki, Children: Sandra Hibbard (Ray), Mark Wolicki (Elizabeth), Lisa Giovannini (Erick), his seven grandchildren, his siblings Hank Wolicki (Jeannine), Sylvia Zalewski (Bob), and brother-in-law Frank Ferracciolo, in addition to many nieces, nephews, and friends. He was preceded in death by Rosalie’s sister, Angie Ferracciolo.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory can be made to the American Heart Association.

A visitation will be held Sunday, November 10, from 4:00-8:00pm at Harry J Will, 37000 Six Mile Rd, Livonia, Michigan 48152, with a rosary service at 7:00pm. An in-state will be held Monday, November 11, at 9:30am at St Priscilla Catholic Church, 19120 Purlingbrook St, Livonia, Michigan 48152, followed by a funeral mass beginning at 10:00am. He will be laid to rest at Glen Eden Memorial Park.