Elaine L. Horwath

Elaine L. Horwath, age 88, longtime resident of Northville, passed away March 18, 2026. She was born on October 6, 1937 in Dillonvale, Ohio; daughter of Frank and Anne (Toto) Berjeski. She was united in marriage to Ken Horwath on May 20, 2000 and they spent 14 years lovingly devoted to one another until his death on October 30, 2014.

Elaine graduated from Mackenzie High School in Detroit with the Class of 1956. Just out of high school, Elaine began her career as a secretary with Ford Motor Company, where she worked until her first marriage to Richard Marrone and the start of her family. She then devoted herself wholeheartedly to raising her children, embracing her role as a loving and dedicated mother. With five children to care for, her days were full, yet she never missed a moment, cheering them on at games, supporting their activities, and ensuring they always had what they needed. She instilled strong values and life skills in her children, teaching responsibility through daily routines and Saturday chores before any leisure could begin. Deeply involved in their lives, she volunteered with the PTA at Our Lady of Victory School and led the cheerleading program for the Northville Colts. When her children reached high school, she returned to the workforce, joining the Men’s Fragrance Department at Hudson’s Department Store in Twelve Oaks Mall. She remained there for more than 20 years, before retiring in the late 1990s.

Elaine was a devoted member of Our Lady of Victory Catholic Church in Northville for many years. Deeply committed to her faith community, she generously gave her time as a volunteer with the funeral luncheon committee. She was also an active member of the Northville Mother’s Club, where she contributed her time and talents to numerous projects, including helping to create and publish the club’s community cookbook.

Elaine loved playing bingo and often traveled across the border to Canada with her friends, sometimes as many as four times a week. A frequent winner, she celebrated her biggest prize of $5,000 with delight. She also enjoyed bowling and golfing alongside her husband, as well as spending time playing cards, especially pinochle, with family and friends. Elaine liked to be in the kitchen, where her talents as a cook and baker brought comfort and happiness to those around her. She was known for her delicious homemade breads and her rice pudding. Her golumpki, and lasagna were also family favorites. She was extremely proud of her Polish heritage, she loved the Polka and Polish music.

Elaine had a love for travel and adventure. Among her most cherished experiences were a memorable road trip out West and a cruise to Alaska. Closer to home, she enjoyed exploring the beauty of Michigan through frequent road trips. Her true happy place, however, was her cottage in Lewiston, which she enjoyed year-round. Summers were spent boating on the water, while winters brought the thrill of snowmobiling. Above all, she treasured the time spent at the cottage surrounded by family creating lasting memories.

Elaine’s greatest joy was her family, whom she loved deeply and unconditionally. Though her children and grandchildren were spread across many places, she made every effort to visit whenever she could. When distance kept them apart, she remained a constant source of love and support, always finding ways to stay connected and involved in their lives. Her legacy will live on in the memories she created and the deep love she shared with all who knew her. She will be missed and forever held in the hearts of her family and friends.

Elaine is survived by her loving children, Rick (Keri) Marrone, Kathy (Tim) Marshall, Steve (Brenda) Marrone, and Kris Zwemer; her son-in-law, Shawn MacDonald; her brother, Gary Hotchkiss; her grandchildren, Erin (Matt) Branstrom, Ben Marrone, Dom Marrone, Allison (Chris) Poppema, Daniel Marshall, Emily (Alex) Nekritz, Ian MacDonald, Gordie Zwemer, Finn Zwemer, Anthony Marrone, Nicholas Marrone; and her great grandchildren, Addison, Griffin, Olivia, and Maeve. She was preceded in death by her husband, Ken Horwath; her daughter Lisa MacDonald; her parents; her sisters, Charlotte Caldron and Irene Gay; her brother, Frank Berjeski; and her former husband of 30 years, Richard Marrone.

The Visitation will be held Thursday, March 26, 2026 from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Casterline Funeral Home, 122 W. Dunlap, Northville. The Funeral Mass will be held Friday, March 27, 2026 at 11:00 a.m., instate 10:30 a.m. at Our Lady of Victory Catholic Church, 133 Orchard Drive, Northville. Elaine will be laid to rest next to her husband at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers the family would appreciate memorial contributions to the American Heart Association, 26555 Evergreen Rd., Ste. 570, Southfield, MI 48076 or Alzheimer’s Association, 25200 Telegraph Rd., Ste. 100, Southfield, MI 48033.