Denise M. Sisung, 71, a lifelong resident of Monroe, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by her family Thursday, June 19, 2025.
Denise was a ray of sunshine to those who knew her, and often even to those who didn't. Quick with a joke and a friendly smile, Denise excelled at and embraced her many life roles – daughter, wife, mother, sister, aunt, mother-in-law and friend – but there was nothing she cherished more than being "Grammy" to and spending time with her three beloved grandchildren. She also reserved a special place in her heart for her granddogs.
When faced with a series of health challenges over the last 20 years including two organ transplants and various cancers, Denise showed amazing courage, resilience and positivity. The brave example she set will forever serve as an inspiration for her family and friends.
Born July 10, 1953, the daughter of Victor and Delphine (Hopp) Wolf, Denise graduated in 1971 from St. Mary's Academy. She married William J. Sisung on October 18, 1980 in Monroe. Denise and Bill would have celebrated their 45th anniversary this year.
An avid Detroit Red Wings hockey fan, Denise also enjoyed traveling, cooking and baking. Denise was the heart and soul of family gatherings and celebrations and particularly enjoyed playing Christmas bingo. Incredibly generous, Denise also loved to shop and share treasures with her family. She was the office manager for plastic surgeon Dr. Christopher Kelly for many years.
She is survived by her husband, Bill Sisung of Monroe; five children, Jeff (Alison Maxwell) Zillgitt of Arlington, Va., Danielle Zillgitt of Monroe, William J. (Morgan) Sisung, III of Ypsilanti, Courtney (Ken Thompson) Sisung of Newport and Marisa Sisung of Ypsilanti; and three grandchildren, Lily Zillgitt, Casiel Thompson and Raphael Thompson.
She is preceded in death by her parents and three sisters, Tanis Wolf, Patricia Schmitz and Bonnie Wolf.
Visitation will be held Sunday, June 29, 2025 from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Bacarella Funeral Home, 1201 S. Telegraph Rd, Monroe where services will be held on Monday at 10 a.m. Deacon Michael Stewart will officiate. Interment will follow at St. Joseph Cemetery, Monroe.
Online condolences and special memories may be shared with the family by visiting the obituary page at www.bacarellafuneralhome.com .