Veronica Josephine Pokoj

Veronica Josephine Pokoj, (known by many as 'Dee') passed away peacefully Thursday, February 6, 2014 at her home.

Veronica was born on November 17, 1928 in Center Line, MI to the late Peter M. and Marie B. (Strepka) Silva. She married the late Edward Pokoj on May 3, 1947. Together they lovingly raised three children.

The Pokoj family moved from Detroit to the Traverse City area in 1953. After some years, Veronica and her husband bought Silva's Service (a convenience store, gas station and auto repair) from her parents and renamed the business Pokay's Service. Veronica enjoyed all her customers, young and old. Upon retiring the business was sold and became the Hayloft Inn. Veronica continued to serve customers at the Rite Aid Drug Store on West Bay. She quickly adapted from the cash register era to computerized retail; always happy to help a customer with whatever they needed.

As a young mother, Veronica, along with several neighbor ladies, formed a 4-H Club and shared her talents of sewing and baking. She volunteered as a weekend coordinator for Service with Love, which offered daily phone calls to elderly in the area. Veronica enjoyed crocheting and gifted many people with afghans.

Veronica enjoyed her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Although afflicted with many health issues, she continued to smile and maintained her sense of humor. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

In her final years, Veronica's faith journey was nurtured at Heritage Baptist Church. She continued to deepen her relationship with God as she came to know Him better through his word. She endeared herself to the children; giving each a piece of candy after the service. Without even realizing it, Veronica bore witness to the mercy, grace and healing power of Jesus Christ.

Surviving Veronica are her children, Linda (Jim) Good of Cedar, Barbara (Bernie) Lautner of Traverse City, and Jean (Patrick) Fitzpatrick of Plymouth, former son in law, Edward Janiszewski, 10 grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Veronica is preceded in death by her parents, husband Edward, and four siblings.

Visitation for Veronica will be held Sunday, February 9, 2014 from 4-7:30pm, at the Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held at 11am, Monday, February 10, 2014 at 1st Christian Church, officiated by Pastor Rob Kinney of Heritage Baptist Church. Memorial contributions may be directed to the Long Lake Fire Department or Heritage Baptist Church. Please sign Veronica's online guestbook at www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com .