Geraldine Therese Klenczar

She was born on December 30, 1930, in Detroit, Michigan, and grew up in a lively home rooted in strong family values and togetherness—principles she carried with her throughout her life.

Gerrie was the beloved wife of the late Stanley Klenczar, who preceded her in death in 1985. Together, they built a loving family grounded in kindness, faith, and devotion. She was a cherished mother to Claudia (the late Carlos) DeCarvalho, Celeste (the late Russell) Niemi, Paulette (Chuck) Borders, Colette (Steve) Cloonan, and the late Timothy Klenczar.

She was a proud and loving grandmother to Melissa (James) Keshavarz, Paul, Nathan, and Juliana DeCarvalho; Nicholas (Natalie), Joseph (Michelle), Angela, and Michael (Chelsea) Niemi; Benjamin Borders; and Andrew, Sarah, and Sophia Cloonan. She was also blessed with great-grandchildren Henry, Isaac, Hailey, Ryan, and River Niemi; Paloma Keshavarz; and Mackenzie Cloonan.

Gerrie is further survived by her siblings Patricia (the late Leonard) Susalla, Felicia (the late Larry) Proctor, and Karen (Gregory) Epacs; and was preceded in death by her siblings Richard Katanski and Daniel Katanski. She shared a special bond with her sister-in-law and dear friend Rita (the late Andrew) Nowak. She will also be deeply missed by many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

Gerrie dedicated many years of her working life as a cook for the Bernadine Sisters, sharing her gift of hospitality through her meals. She lived in Dearborn heights for 32 years and was an active member of St Linus where she was involved in school functions, the church choir and the Christian women’s club. She then moved to White Lake where she was a member of St Patrick Parish.

She was well known for her exceptional cooking, especially traditional Polish dishes such as stuffed cabbage, chicken noodle soup, dill pickle soup and chicken paprikash. She took great pride in her heritage, and her favorite occasion was hosting Easter, when family gathered around her table in celebration and love.

A devoted fan of University of Michigan football, Gerrie rarely missed a game and enjoyed following up with the Sunday Detroit Free Press. She also loved traveling, particularly her winter visits to Southern California, where she enjoyed the sunshine and time with loved ones.

Above all, Gerrie was a devout Catholic woman of deep faith, generosity, and compassion. She was the kind of person who lived by the words of Mother Teresa, "Not all of us can do great things but we can do small things with great love." Gerrie did many small things with great love, and those acts created an immeasurable impact on those around her.

Today, we celebrate the life of Geraldine Klenczar, a woman whose love and spirit will continue to inspire and guide us. Her memory will be cherished, and her presence sorely missed.

Gerrie's journey on earth has ended, but her story will be told for generations, a testament to a life well-lived and a heart well-loved.

In state Thursday, April 9, 2026 from 10:00 AM until time of Mass of Christian Burial, 11:00 AM at St. Patrick's Catholic Church located at 9086 Hutchins Road, White Lake, Michigan 48386 with Father Socorro Fernandes officiating.

Interment will take place in St. Hedwig Cemetery, Dearborn Heights, Michigan.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Gerrie's memory may be made to The Felician Sisters at www.felician.org/donate