Wava Marie Demchinski

Wava Marie Demchinski, 89, of St. Joseph, passed away at Country Manor Care Center in Bridgman, Michigan on November 20, 2018, after suffering from an unexpected fall that led to other health complications. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, November 24, at 10:30 AM at St. John’s Catholic Church, 600 Columbus, Benton Harbor, officiated by Father Ben Huynh with burial to follow at Riverview Cemetery.  Visitation will be held on November 23 from 4 until 7 PM at Starks & Menchinger Chapel, 2650 Niles Road, St. Joseph.  Memorials may be made to Caring Circle Hospice or Msgr. Eugene Sears Scholarship Fund. Friends wishing to send a condolence may do so at  www.starks–menchinger.com. Wava was born on February 28, 1929, to Charles and Lola Goldner (Moore) in Benton Harbor, MI.  Wava married Alfred Anthony Demchinski on April 17, 1948. One of her favorite family traditions was cooking Sunday Dinner with all the family during the early years with the grandchildren.  Wava worked for 35 years at Rimes Department Store, St. Joseph.  Wava was known to her customers for her beautiful smile and genuine kindness.  Once Rimes closed in December 1999, she volunteered for 16 years at the Gazebo gift shop at Lakeland Hospital.  She took great pride in helping others and took her volunteering responsibilities very seriously.  Wava was a very devoted member of SS John & Bernard Parish, where she served on the funeral committee. Wava is survived by her son, Wayne (Michele) Demchinski, her daughter, Diane (Rocky) Genovese; six grandchildren, Michael (Melissa) Demchinski, Keith (Terri) Demchinski, Kara (Jack) Gibson, Kellie (Brad Vujtech, Brett (Kristin) Wier, Laura (Joe) Napolitan, eleven great-grandchildren; Trevor, Ava, Bryce, Hannah, Ella, John, Averie, Tyler, Shea, Alexis & Elise. Wava was preceded in death by her husband, Al on February 2, 1999, parents, six brothers and sisters.  She will be most remembered for her love of her family, her selflessness, gentleness, her wisdom and her life lived by example.