Stella Stepinski

Stella Stepinski, 104, of Duluth, went home to join her heavenly Father on Christmas Day. Stella was born to Felix and Maria Tarazewicz on May 8, 1919 in Kaduszki District Postawy, Poland. She met John Stepinski, her beloved husband, in Wildflecken, a war displaced persons camp, in Germany. The couple married on April 7, 1947. From there they sought out a better future arriving in America in 1949 and later making their home in Duluth, MN. Stella had a strong faith and was a member of Holy Family Catholic Church. She and John kept faith as a central anchor of life and shared their faith with their children and grandchildren. Stella could often be heard reciting her daily prayers. Stella enjoyed her years of employment, and the many friendships she made while at St. Mary’s Hospital. She retired in 1971, after decades of dedicated service. Stella was a very strong and creative woman taking pride in all she did, especially her family. She spoiled those she loved with excellent family meals of pierogi, golumpki, and kruschicki, just to name a few, as well as, making beautiful afghans, slippers and other knit and crochet treasures. She had a quick wit and feisty sense of humor.

Stella was preceded in death by her parents Felix and Maria, husband John, brother Peter, grandson Michael Rich (Val), sons-in-law Bob Larson (Terrie) and Joe Stepun (Jeanne) and also Karen Engen (Marty).

 She is survived by her children: Jeanne Stepun, Marty Stepinski (Patty) and Terrie Larson; her Grandchildren: Christina Marsh, Teresa Nelson, Melissa Stepinski, Jennifer Lotzer (Scott), Val Rich ; and great grandchildren: Meagan Marsh Pine (Liz), Joe Marsh (Ali), Chase and Isabella Nelson, and Jude and Jack Lotzer.

A Private family service was held with Father Andrew Knop officiating, with burial at the Polish Catholic Cemetery. The family would like to extend our gratitude to the caregivers at Gentiva Hospice. They provided Stella and the family with excellent care, compassion, and treated her with dignity and love. Memorials can be made to the Alzheimer’s association. https://act.alz.org › donate Alzheimers Association 225 N. Michigan Ave., Fl. 17, Chicago, IL 6061