of Chelsea, Michigan, formerly of Detroit. age 75, died Thursday, November 30, 2023, at Ascension Providence Hospital in Novi. She was born June 27, 1948, in Sheffield, England, the daughter of Kazimierz and Rita (Dumford) Koszalka.
Maria attended Chadsey High School in Detroit, Michigan where she spent most of her life. She worked as a guest services representative at Marriott. When she was in her fifties, she returned to school to earn her associates degree, something that she always had a lot of pride in. Maria’s true life calling however, was her family. Maria loved her family intensely and adored her seven grandchildren who she enjoyed attending various activities with. Whether it be sports, dance, gymnastics, or even just helping getting them to their activities, she did so with a lot of intent and enthusiasm. Maria was also an avid Detroit Tigers baseball fan and would watch games as regularly as she could.
Maria was married to Howard Lashbrook and even though they divorced some years later, they remained close friends throughout the rest of her life. She is survived by two daughters, Sarah (Jason) Burrus of Chelsea; and Erin (Elmar) Prihoda of Commerce Township; seven grandchildren and great-grandchild; Jacob (Nadia) Bullock, Benjamin Bullock, Caleb Bullock, Rachel Bullock, Marcus Prihoda, Mira Prihoda, and Maggie Prihoda; and one great-grandchild, Luke Bullock. Maria was preceded in death by her parents; and brother, Robert Koszalka.
Funeral services will be held Monday, December 4, 2023, 7:00 p.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel in Chelsea, with Pastor Josh Kuck officiating. The family will receive friends Monday, from 4:00 - 7:00 p.m. at Cole Funeral Chapel. Memorial contributions may be made to the Main Street Church Vision Fund, P.O. Box 111, Chelsea, MI 48118.
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