Eugene Szamiel

Eugene “Geno” Szamiel (1954–2025)

Eugene “Geno” Szamiel, 71, of Leonard, Michigan, passed away peacefully at home on April 17, 2025. A kindhearted and selfless man, Eugene always put the care and well-being of others before himself.

Born in Gorzów, Poland, in 1954 to Diane Fruehauf and Eugene Szamiel, he immigrated to the United States as a young child. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and devout Catholic, Eugene built a life grounded in faith, family, and compassion.

He met the love of his life, Janina, in the mid-1970s through a family friend in Hamtramck, Michigan. In a twist of fate, a mutual friend introduced Eugene to two young women—he chose Janina, and the two quickly formed a deep connection. They were married on August 2, 1975, excited to begin a new chapter together.

Eugene and Janina were blessed with two children, Anita and Sebastian, who were the joy of their lives. Eugene was a proud and supportive father, and later, a loving and playful grandfather. Though he loved many things—soccer, motorcycles, and table tennis—his favorite role was that of “Dziadziu.” He adored his grandchildren, always quick with a hug, a “Bravo!” of encouragement, or a warm laugh at their newest achievements. He often reminded them, with pride, what good huggers they were.

Professionally, Eugene dedicated 30 years of service as a Pilot Team Coordinator at Dodge Truck Assembly. He later found joy driving buses for Oxford and Romeo Schools, where he especially cherished connecting with foreign exchange students and hearing their stories.

Eugene was a man of many interests. He was passionate about table tennis and incredibly proud of his Polish heritage. He loved to share traditional music—especially Polka and accordion tunes—and was known for his deep knowledge of Polish food, history, and soccer (futbol). He even taught himself to play a few songs on the accordion, delighting family and friends with his talent.

A champion of natural health and sustainable living, Eugene could often be found reading food labels and encouraging others to explore organic and alternative wellness practices. He believed deeply in caring for the earth and all of God’s creatures, and his generous heart touched everyone he met. One could always count on hearing him say, “Watch for deer,” as they headed out his door—a gentle reminder of his ever-present care.

Eugene is preceded in death by his parents, Diane and Eugene, his siblings Jozef Szamiel, Stanley Szamiel (Jackie), and his sister Yvonne Brown. He is survived by his beloved wife of nearly 50 years, Janina Szamiel; his children Anita Morawski (Jerry) and Sebastian Szamiel (Stacie); his cherished grandchildren, Mitchel Morawski (Ashley), Nicholas Morawski, Kyleigh Szamiel, Tessa Szamiel, Scarlett Szamiel; and his great-granddaughter, Violet Leeper and many extended family and dear friends.

A Memorial Service will be held on Thursday, May 1st, from 2:00 to 6:00 p.m. at Henry M. Malburg Funeral Home, with a Catholic service beginning at 5:00 p.m.

Eugene’s legacy of love, kindness, and unwavering faith will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.