Mrs. Erna T. Pelak (Schimkowitsch)

August 26, 1927 - February 9, 2022

Mrs. Erna T. Pelak (Schimkowitsch) age 94 of Grand Rapids went to be with the Lord on Wednesday February 9, 2022. Erna was preceded in death by her parents Leopold and Paula Schimkowitsch. She will be deeply missed by her husband of 75 years Henry who always called Erna his “precious jewel”; her children Joanie (John) Benzer, Bill (Susan) Pelak, Doris (Derek) Chase and Ken Pelak; her grandchildren Jennifer (Dave) Gilman, Kim (Eric) Teachout, Eddie Benzer, Wynn (Robin) Pelak, Lisa (Ed) Yeo, Corey (Tye) Johnson, Megan (Nathan) Williams, Jason (Leslie) Pelak, Scott Pelak, Christy Chase, Josh Pelak, Lynsey Pelak, Jacob (Samantha) Pelak, Justin Pelak; 25 great grandchildren; sisters-in-law Lorraine Malmyga and Lenore Pelak; many nieces, nephews, special friends and neighbors. Erna was a long time active member of St. James Church and the Basilica of St. Adalbert. She was a lifetime member of the American Legion Post 258 Ladies Auxiliary. Erna spent much of her life battling for the less fortunate. Erna’s life motto was “I would love to see everyone in the world happy!” The Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated Tuesday at 11:00 am at the Basilica of St. Adalbert where she will repose one hour prior to the Mass. Interment will take place at Mt. Calvary Cemetery. The family will receive visitors Monday from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm at the Arsulowicz Brothers Remembrance Mortuary, 3525 Remembrance Rd NW where the Vigil Service will be held Monday at 6:30 pm. Memorial contributions may be made to Emmanuel Hospice or The Basilica of St. Adalbert to help the needy.