Judy D. Pierzynowski

Judith Delores Pierzynowski, Biindaabinkwe (coming of the light at dawn), died unexpectedly in her home on September 28, 2022 at the age of 62. A traditional fire was tended at the Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa property. Funeral services were held on October 5, 2022 at Stone Funeral Home in Petoskey, with visitation at 10 am, followed by a beautiful funeral service and Odawa ceremony at 11 am. The funeral was officiated by Pastor Jonathon Mays and traditional tribal leader Frank Ettawageshik. A feast and traditional burial ceremony were held at Greensky Hill cemetery in Charlevoix. Judy was peacefully laid to rest aside her youngest brother. The ceremony was officiated by Frank Ettawageshik and shkawebis William Whitepigeon.

Judy is survived by her mother, Delores Ann (King) Pierzynowski; her loving husband, Michael L. Rosencrans; her brother Joseph Daniel Pierzynowski; her maternal aunts Alice May (King) Yellowbank, Carol Jean (King) McFall, and Grace Marie (King) Zerbe; several half-siblings, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

She is predeceased by her father John Joseph Pierzynowski; her brothers, John David Pierzynowski, Ronald James Pierzynowski, Thomas Charles Pierzynowski, and youngest brother Mathew Mark Pierzynowski; and biological father John W. Keshick, Sr.

Judy was born March 12, 1960 in Petoskey, Michigan. She grew up with her family in Detroit and graduated from Murry-Wright High School. Judy worked for Michigan State University, in various capacities and retired from MSU after 25 years of service. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree from MSU in Agricultural Management. Judy married the love of her life, Michael Rosencrans, in a traditional ceremony in 2011. They brought great joy to one another and shared life’s passions with each other.

Judy often shared fond memories of growing up in Detroit, especially with all brothers. She was a wonderful, fun, and sometimes stern auntie to her nieces and nephews. Judy helped to teach and care for them. She was passionate about family and shared a special closeness with her niece Sheila (Pierzynowski) Hart and nephew Thomas Pierzynowski. Judy and Mike adopted and helped raise her great nephew and niece, Alex and Alexis Seneca, whom they are very proud of.   

Judy enjoyed spending her time volunteering, working with youth, and served on several boards and committees. Judy loved animals and plants, and spending time in nature. She attended and danced at powwows, and often did crafts, sewing and beadwork. Judy often worked hard on making items and gifting them to family and friends. She was kind and extremely thoughtful.

Judy will be fondly remembered for her generous and helpful spirit, and her great laugh. She laughed out loud often, and she walked with grace, integrity, and respect for mother earth.

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