Rita Botz, age 87, passed away surrounded by the love of her family on January 25th, 2026. She was born in Detroit, Michigan, to Martin and Rose Graczyk and was raised in a proud Polish and Catholic household that shaped her values, faith, and deep devotion to family.

In 1956, Rita married the love of her life, Alphonse "Al" Botz, and together they built a beautiful life and family. She was a devoted wife and mother of three children Pamala, Kevin, and Linda. Her family was always the center of her world. Nothing brought her more joy than time spent together—especially during holidays filled with laughter, tradition, and her cherished home-cooked meals.

Later in life, Rita became a devoted and deeply loving grandmother to Eric, Ashley, Joshua, and Alyssa, a role she treasured immensely. She was also a proud great-grandmother to Ariana, Gracie, Avery, Bradley, Maxson, Rylee, Madison, and Sydney, each of whom brought her endless joy and pride.

Rita was deeply involved in her church throughout her life, living her faith through service, commitment, and kindness. She took great pride in order and cleanliness and was known for always looking perfectly put together—her hair, makeup, and nails done without exception.

Proudly 100% Polish, Rita embraced her heritage wholeheartedly. She loved making traditional Polish foods such as kielbasa and pierogi, attending Polish festivals every year, and dancing the polka with joy and energy. Her love of life was unmistakable.

She adored summertime, the outdoors, and soaking up the sun. Some of her happiest moments were spent boating on Lake LeAnn—and in true Rita fashion, she even rode a jet ski at 85 years old. In the evenings, she enjoyed watching Wheel of Fortune and doing crossword puzzles before bed, a routine she rarely missed.

Always determined and curious, Rita continued learning and adapting, even mastering new technology with her cell phone well into her later years. Her family recalls accidental Facetime calls and Rita would always say "sorry, that wasn't me." Her strength, independence, and grace were an inspiration to everyone who knew her.

Above all, Rita will be remembered for her love of family, her unwavering faith, her pride in her heritage, and her zest for life. She leaves behind a legacy of tradition, devotion, and countless cherished memories that will live on in the hearts of all who loved her.

Rita is preceded in death by her beloved husband Alphonse, her daughter Pamala, her parents Martin and Rose, and her great granddaugher Gracie. She is survived by her children Kevin (Mary) Botz and Linda (Gerald "Jerry") Sciborek. Her grandchildren Eric (Erin) Botz, Ashley (Danny) Young, Joshua (Heather) Stout, and Alyssa (Bradley) Singelyn. Her great grandchildren Ariana, Avery, Bradley, Maxson, Rylee, Madison, and Sydney. She will be dearly missed by all whom had the pleasure of knowing her.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the American Cancer Society.

Following the entombment at Our Lady of Hope Cemetery, a luncheon will take place at Crystal Gardens in Southgate, MI.