Shirley Ann Valerie Mainzinger, age 86 of Monroe, passed away Sunday, April 23, 2023 in her home. Her unexpected departure from this life followed a wonderful family wedding celebration held the night before.
Born October 29, 1936 in Detroit, Valerie was the daughter of the late Alfred and Marie (Luchtan) Raschke. She was a 1955 graduate of Monroe High School and married Douglas E. Mainzinger on October 5, 1957 in Trenton, MI. Together they raised seven children. He preceded her in death on July 26, 2000. .
Valerie was office manager of Tru Point Corporation in Detroit, a tool and die business founded by her father, and later co-owned by her and her son, Michael. She worked there for 31 years before retiring in 2016. She was an active member of Brest Bay Sportsman Gun Club in Newport where she and her husband were founding members and served as past president of its Ladies Auxiliary. Valerie was a vendor at the downtown Monroe Farmer's Market and a volunteer at the Monroe Senior Center. She enjoyed crafting, making jewelry, gardening, reading and cooking.
Valerie is survived by her children, Michael (Mariann) Mainzinger of Belleville, MI, Keith Mainzinger of Monroe, Kevin (Jackie) Mainzinger of Monroe, Karen Privett of Newnan, GA, Michelle (Richard) Burman of LaSalle, MI, and Brian Mainzinger of Monroe; 17 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.
In addition to her parents and husband, Valerie was preceded in death by a daughter, Kathy Luppo and a sister, Arlene Mondro.
In accordance with her wishes, Valerie's earthly remains have been donated to the University of Michigan Medical School. At a later date, she will be laid to rest with her husband at Gethsemane Cemetery.
All are welcome to attend a memorial visitation, Wednesday, Apr. 26th from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Bacarella Funeral Home. A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Thursday,
Apr. 27th at Bacarella Funeral Home. Deacon Mike Stewart of St. Mary Catholic Church will officiate.
For anyone wanting to make a donation in memory of Valerie, the family recommends supporting the Monroe Senior Center.
Online condolences and special memories may be shared with the family by visiting the obituary page at www.bacarellafuneralhome.com .