Obituary

Lettie Slusiewicz
January 2, 1936 – April 17, 2024
Laguna Woods, California

Lettie (Kimbort) Slusiewicz’s life came to a close on April 17^th, 2024, surrounded by her loving family.  She led a long life, full of energy, compassion, kindness, and generosity that touched the lives of everyone she met. She had a positive and infectious attitude, which positively affected most everyone she met.  As such, Lettie developed many long lasting friendships throughout her life.  Despite having a challenging childhood prior to arriving in the USA, she led an exciting, vibrant, and prosperous life in America.

Lettie was born outside Vilnius Poland just prior to World War 2.  Her parents, Joseph and Anna Kimbort with Lettie, were forcibly relocated to the Gulags of Siberia during the Russian occupation.  Separated from her father, she and her mother eventually traveled south through Russia, Iran, Iraq, and India by foot, by train, or any means available, before boarding a ship to Africa.  Her final destination for the duration of World War II was a Polish refugee camp in Uganda, where she stayed for over for 5 years.  Her father and mother happened to separately write to an uncle in Wisconsin. Discovering they were all still alive, the Red Cross arranged for them to be re-united in England after 8 years separation.  They eventually gained entrance to America and settled at their uncle’s farm in Mineral Point Wisconsin.  Lettie attended High School and Business College there.

Lettie met another Polish immigrant from Michigan, Richard Slusiewicz, who she eventually married, and moved to Grand Rapids, Michigan to raise her family. Lettie worked for General Motors for a time, then the City of Grand Rapids, and finally 20+ years for the State of Michigan in employment services, helping people find jobs.  Lettie and Richard visited their son in California and started a life initially as snowbirds for a number of years, before permanently settling in Laguna Woods around 20 years ago.  She raised 2 successful sons, who also live in California, both within 5 miles of her residence. They visited often, where many happy and joyous times were had by all.

Lettie was very much involved in the activities and clubs in the Laguna Woods Community.  She was involved in the Polish Club, the Garden Club, Red Hats, the Chicago Club while helping deliver Meals on Wheels for 18 years, and participant in many tours and events arranged by the Community.  She was an active member of Saint Nicholas Church.  She was part of the church’s Sewing Club, making beautiful blankets for newborn babies.  She and her many friends met weekly to play cards and other games, share stories, snacks, laughs, and always enjoyed each other’s company.

Lettie is survived by her 2 sons, Gene and Jerry Slusiewicz.  She has 4 grandchildren, Sierra, Jaden, Sean, and Ryan, and the family recently added a great grandchild, Declan, who she simply adored holding.  Lettie was a loyal friend, a devoted wife, and mother.  Her absence will be deeply felt by all those who had the privilege to know her.  Her family and friends will miss her vibrant spirit and have many cherished memories of their time together.