Elvira Margaretta (Bergmann) Stawski Obituary

Elvira Bergmann Stawski was born June 30, 1944, in Riga, Latvia, the daughter of Apollon and Alexandria Bergmann. Elvira is survived by her beloved Willard "Bill" Stawski, her husband of 55 years. Elvira was the proud mother of Eric (Barb), Steven, Jeannette (Justin), Phillip (Rachel), 10 grandchildren,

Dylan, Matthew, Brianna, Ryan, Gretel, Connor, Thor, Nathan, Vivienne and Everett. Elvira is also survived by her sister Elvina and husband Lee Kallett.

Elvira and her parents immigrated to the United States from Augsburg, Germany, August 14, 1950, and settled in Toledo, Ohio. Elvira graduated from St. Ursula Academy at age 16 and graduated from the University of Toledo at age 20. She was in medical school at the University of Michigan when she met the love of her life Bill Stawski. They were married February 18, 1967, soon to be joined by her four wonderful children, Eric (Barb), Steven, Jeannette (Justin), Phillip (Rachel) all of whom gave her such joy in life. And they were followed by Elvira's next generation of blessings: her ten grandchildren.

Elvira was an active volunteer first in the East Grand Rapids Schools and then Forest Hills Northern Schools. She volunteered at Forest Hills Schools as a Brownie leader and cultural arts chairman. She was a founding member of the Forest Hills Northern Academic Boosters Club, and supported Northern's music, athletics, and academics. She taught pre-school at Mayflower and Forest Hills Presbyterian, and substitute taught in the Forest Hills Schools. Children were her joy. She was enthusiastic and determined to do her best with every project she attacked. Elvira loved life, her family, and dear friends.

She loved to garden, read, paint, enjoy music, art, and travel. Most importantly Bill, her children and grandchildren, were the treasures of her heart.

A service of joy honoring her life will be held on Thursday January 12, 2023 at 11am at the Metcalf & Jonkhoff Funeral Home, 4291 Cascade Rd. SE., Grand Rapids, MI 49546 with visitation one hour before the service. Memorial contributions in her name may be made to Forest Hills Fine Arts Center, 600 Forest Hills Avenue SE., Grand Rapids, MI 49546.