Frances Orzechowski

A member of the greatest generation has passed away, Frances Zemitis Orzechowski (Cookie). After 93 years (and 186 birthdays), a very loving mother and Grandmother passed away peacefully on August 26, 2014. She was born to Michael and Mary Zemaitis on August 16, 1921, or August 20, 1921 depending on which birth certificate you review. She was raised on a family farm near Standale, Michigan. During these times many farm children stopped their education at 8th grade, but not Frances. Because she was determined to pursue higher education, she took on a job as a nanny which enabled her to attend Union High School in Grand Rapids Michigan. After that, she progressed to Grand Rapids Community College and then went on and earned a nursing master’s degree from Catholic University in Washington DC. Frances felt the need to serve her country during time of war so she joined the U.S. Navy and served as a commissioned officer at the Lieutenant, junior grade rank during World War II. She is also a lifetime member of VFW Post #1. In 1950 she married the love of her life, U.S. Marine, later rocket scientist, Casimir Orzechowski who proceeded her in death on June 10, 2002. Together they had 10 wonderful children, and 26 grandchildren. She always stayed in touch with her roots, spending countless summer hours tending the garden. Frances loved her garden both flower and vegetable. Her family, her dog Rush, Lawrence Welk, and playing cards always brought smiles to her face. With love we remember and celebrate the life that touched so many others. Visitation will be held from 5:00-8:00pm Friday September 5th at Alt & Shawmut Hills Chapel, 2120 Lake Michigan Dr NW Grand Rapids, MI. A Rosary will be prayed during the viewing at 7:30 pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be Saturday September 6th 10:00 am at Holy Spirit Catholic Church, 2230 Lake Michigan Dr NW, Grand Rapids, MI. immediately following the Mass Service the family invites you to join them for a luncheon before graveside interment with full military honors at Rosedale Memorial Park. In Lieu of flowers family ask you consider making a donation in Frances’s Memorial contribution for Frances Orzechowski Kent County 4-H 775 Ball Avenue, NE Grand Rapids, MI 49503 or to Senior Neighbors, Inc.820 Monroe NW, # 460 Grand Rapids 49503 or Memorial contribution for Frances Orzechowski Frederick County 4H 330 Montevue Lane Frederick, MD 21702. To sign the online guestbook visit www.lifestorynet.com or call 616-453-8263