Maryann Podolak

Maryann Podolak, age 95 of Grand Rapids passed away peacefully on August 27, 2024. Maryann was born January 13, 1929. She is preceded in death by her husband John Edward Podolak, her mother and father, Mary and Anthony Yokabitus, and her brother Anthony Yokabitus. She is survived by her wonderful sister-in-law Beatrice Yokabitus. She is also survived by her children Lawrence/Jane Podolak, Shelley Podolak and Christine/William Wood. Her loving grandchildren will miss her; Jessica, Jason/Lauren, Jennifer/Joe, Stephanie/Jeff, Ryan, and Sara/Ryan. She will also be missed by her great grandchildren; Devin, Claire, Henry, Emma, Tessa, Ruby, Zeke, Parker, Audrey, Donovan, and Penelope. Maryann’s remarkable life was defined by her childhood accident when she fell out of a cherry tree……one she was not suppose to climb. This accident left her developing the qualities of fierce independence, ingenuity, resourcefulness, ability to handle pain, humor, caring…….and wearing the title of being "just plain stubborn”. In her early years she worked for Haskelite on the westside of Grand Rapids where she met her late husband John. From there her job was to raise her children, being involved in school PTA, cub and girls scouts. Once they were older, she went back to school to earn her BA degree. No small feat considering she was the oldest student in her college classes. She was then hired by the Kent County Department of Social Services as a Child Protective Service Worker. A job which showed Maryann’s immense caring and concern for the well being of all children in our city. She did an amazing job helping families become more loving while offering protection to those who need it. She developed wonderul friendships with her fellow workers who supported each other in this very difficult job. These friendships lasted long after her retirement……with weekly Thursday lunch get-togethers and special birthday concerts. Thank you so much for those special times. Maryann enjoyed bowling, golf, cooking fudge for everyone, playing around with recipes, taking yearly trips to Florida…..but mostly shopping with Shelley and Chris. She was in heaven when walking through outlet malls or department stores. Maryann lead a life of caring, resourcefulness, persistence……qualities we all could admire and emulate ……she ran her race and now she is done. We will miss her greatly. We will celebrate Maryann’s life Wednesday, September 4, at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church located at 2510 Richmond St NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504. At 10:00am there will be an hour visitation with family followed by a short service and luncheon. We appreciate the Medilodge of Wyoming staff and Corewell Health Hospice of West Michigan for all the support and kindness they gave us.

Tributes

Maryann Podolak

January 13, 1929 - August 27, 2024