Prakseda Gabrych

Prakseda Gabrych, 75, of Union Pier, MI, died peacefully in her home on Sunday, Nov. 13, 2011. Arrangements have been entrusted with Sommerfeld Chapel of New Buffalo.Prakseda was born in Bierzow, Poland on Oct. 24, 1936 to Viktor and Anna Pruski. She immigrated to the United States at the age of 21. On Sept. 19, 1974, in New Buffalo, she married Jan Gabrych. He preceded her in death on May 24, 1994. For many years Prakseda shared her love of cooking, second only to gardening, with local residents by working at various local restaurants. She was fondly called “mama” by many for her European hospitality and charm in or out of the kitchen. Prakseda was a longtime member of St. Mary of the Lake Church, where she was also involved with the Rosary and Altar Society.She is survived by her three children, John Poliwczynski of Union Pier, MI, Elizabeth (David) Flick of New Buffalo, MI, and Anna Gabrych of Indianapolis, IN; eight grandchildren and two great grandchildren.A Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Thursday, Nov. 17, 11:00am, at St. Mary of the Lake Church, with Father Craig Lusk officiating. Burial will follow at Pine Grove Cemetery in New Buffalo.Visitation is on Wednesday, Nov. 16, from 4:00-8:00pm at the Sommerfeld Chapel in New Buffalo. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Mary of the Lake Church. Friends wishing to leave a message of condolence may do so at www.sommerfeldchapel.com