Derexa C. Grindatti

DEREXA C. GRINDATTI, 56, passed away peacefully on July 22, 2012 at Jewish Hospital, ending a life long battle with Type 1 diabetes. She was born July 31st 1955, in Ann Arbor, MI. She graduated from Walled Lake Western High School in Wixom, MI, in 1973. Derexa and her husband Lawrence Grindatti settled in Ann Arbor, MI, where they raised their son Brandon. Derexa had a lifelong thirst for self improvement. She stressed healthy dieting and timely routines. She was an avid interior designer with a knack for silk flower arrangements. She loved scrapbooking and regularly consulted with other enthusiasts to create elaborate designs. In 1996 she was blessed with a kidney-pancreas transplant to offset effects of the diabetes. After a near record setting stay for shortest time in and out of the hospital with a kidney-pancreas transplant, she became a consultant for others with diabetes wishing to follow in her tracks. Derexa always desired to help others, especially children. She realized the challenges that some children face in the classroom when it comes to learning. She became part of the IN*Source team and eventually worked with the parents and educators of several children with learning disabilities. She loved her family and took great pride in their successes. Survivors include her beloved husband of 35 years, Lawrence J. Grindatti; son, Brandon J. Grindatti; father, Orlando Smith; mother, Martha Smith; and sister, Alexis Q. Smith. Special thanks are given to the many doctors and professionals whom worked with Derexa during the transplant and later years of her life. Her courage and strength remain an inspiration to everyone who knew her. Viewing is scheduled for Wednesday, July 25th from 6:00 pm ~ 8:00 PM EST at Kraft Funeral Service, 708 E. Spring Street, New Albany, IN. Her Funeral Service will be 10:00 AM EST Thursday, July 26th at the Kraft Spring Street Chapel. Messages of condolences may be made online at www.kraftfuneralservice.net