Nicolina Grose

In Loving Memory of Nicolina “Lena” Grose December 5th, 1947 – April 25, 2025 Nicolina “Lena” Grose, a beloved sister, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully on April 25, 2025. Lena’s life was one marked by boundless love, fierce devotion, and a generous spirit that touched everyone she met. Born in Militello, Italy, Lena immigrated to the United States with her family at the age of five, eventually settling in New York City. It was there that she grew up and developed a deep love for life, family, and travel. She later moved to Michigan, where she worked as a trusted travel agent at Cadillac Travel Agency in Southfield. Her kindness, attention to detail, and warmth made her a favorite among coworkers and clients alike—so much so that even after retirement, the agency continued to ask her to return. Lena met the love of her life, Randolf “Rand” Grose, at a singles dance club—fitting, as dancing became one of their shared passions. They enjoyed many beautiful years together, dancing their way through life, until Rand's chronic illness slowly took him from her. Through it all, Lena remained by his side with unwavering devotion, caring for him selflessly for nearly a decade. In their 22 years together, Lena and Rand traveled extensively, making memories on the California coast in Big Sur and Martha’s Vineyard (a favorite of hers), and in Italy and Canada. Early in Rand’s illness, they spent cherished time near her family in Canada, where Lena found solace in the quiet beauty of the countryside and the love of her extended family. As his health declined, Lena decided to return Rand to Michigan to ensure he received the best possible care. She was treasured by her siblings Maria (Lee) Mastronardi, Tom (Sharon) Militelo, and Josephine (Joseph) Belnome, and loved deeply by her brother and sister-in-law, John and Terri Grose. Lena was more than an aunt to her 13 nieces and nephews—she was a grandmother figure, showering them with love, gifts, stories, songs, and delicious meals. Her holiday spreads were legendary, featuring pomegranates, cannolis, espresso, and limoncello, served with laughter and affection. After Rand’s passing, Lena continued to build a rich and vibrant life. She served on the board of her condo association, where her taste and energy helped beautify the grounds and bring joy through holiday decorations. She formed lasting friendships in her community and stayed active socially, enjoying lunches with friends, family visits to Canada and Ohio, and regular trips to get her hair done by her beloved niece. She was a woman of faith, with fond memories of traveling to the Holy Land and an annual pilgrimage to Our Lady of Consolation Shrine in Ohio. Lena is survived by her Canadian family, and extended family in Michigan, New York, Italy. She leaves behind her faithful companion Toby, her little dog of nine years, who rarely left her side. Lena will be remembered for her infectious laugh, her love of children, her Italian lullabies, her flair for hospitality, her strength, her humor, and above all, her heart. She brought together families, brightened every room she entered, and embodied what it meant to live fully and love deeply. She will be missed beyond words. Visitation will be held on Saturday, May 3, 2025 from 3-9pm with a Funeral Service starting at 6pm at Wujek-Calcaterra & Sons, 36900 Schoenherr at Metro Parkway (16 Mile), Sterling Heights. Please share memories with the family at their online guestbook @ WujekCalcaterra.com

Nicolina Grose

December 5, 1947 - April 25, 2025