Marianne Mazzenga

Marianne Mazzenga, a beloved matriarch and lifelong learner, peacefully departed this world at the age of 95 on September 22, 2026, in the comfort of her home. Born in Detroit, Michigan, on March 4, 1931. Married to Alex Mazzenga, on February 3, 1951, Marianne and Alex shared a beautiful life in St. Clair Shores, where they raised their five cherished children. Their union, which lasted until Alex's passing in 2002, was marked by a deep commitment to family. Together, they built a nurturing home filled with joy and learning. Marianne's legacy is carried on by her five children: Jay (Sue), Rob (Carol), Marc (Debbie), MariLynn (Mike), and Kris (Joe), as well as her twelve grandchildren, Nicholas (Margaret Ann), Allison (Doug), Gina (Josh), Alex, Sara (Andrew), Michael (Kali), Bobby (Amy), Angie (Johnny), Joey, Nicky, Josh, and Erin, and thirteen great-grandchildren. Predeceased by her son-in-law Ron. Her loving presence will also be dearly missed by her twin sister, Rosalie, her younger sister, Angeline, and numerous nieces and nephews. A proud graduate of Southeastern High School in 1949, Marianne never ceased to seek knowledge. She continually enriched her mind through classes at the local community college, with her academic journey culminating in 1998 at the age of 67. Marianne believed that every day was an opportunity to learn, whether through books, television, or the simple experiences of life. Marianne's early years were focused around her family as a devoted homemaker. Once her children had grown into independent adults, she had many professional experiences. Beyond her professional and family accomplishments, Marianne was an avid reader and she found joy in the challenges of bridge. Her Thursday bridge games and weekend card parties with neighbors were a way for her to strengthen her brain to live a long and fulfilled life. She joined bowling leagues and even tried her hand at golf. She had a wonderful talent for sewing and knitting and found great joy in creating things with her granddaughters. She made many of her own clothes, as well as clothes for her children. Another hobby was her love for writing. For many years, she wrote beautiful Christmas letters to the family, sharing the year’s milestones, memories, and special moments. She also wrote memoirs throughout the decades, reflecting on her life. The vegetable gardens she planted each year were overflowing with beans, cucumbers, zucchini, and so much more. Through those gardens, she taught the importance of eating well, caring for our health, and appreciating the simple gifts that nature provides. Her family carries that same joy in planting and growing their own gardens, which will be one of her families greatest memories. As Marianne watched her family grow, one of her joys was hearing about her grandchildren’s next adventure. She loved asking about the classes they were taking, when their next vacation was planned, how their job searches were going, and what new learning experiences they had on the horizon. Their curiosity and accomplishments brought her immense pride and gave her endless reasons to keep learning right alongside them. Marianne's life will be celebrated in a private memorial. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly suggests donations be made to THE WCHL, www.thewchl.com. The Wheelchair Hockey League was introduced to her when her grandson Josh started playing on the team. Share memories with the family at their "On-Line Guest Book" @ WujekCalcaterra.com

Marianne Mazzenga

March 4, 1931 - September 22, 2026