Marcel Joseph Rakowski Jr.

Marcel Joseph Rakowski Jr. passed away peacefully on August 10, 2025, surrounded by his loving family—just one day shy of what would have been his 95th birthday.

Marcel was born at home on August 11, 1930, to parents, Hattie and Marcel J. Rakowski, Sr. He was a 1948 graduate of Chadsey High School in Detroit, MI. Marcel began his career as an apprentice at Fisher Body. Later, he moved to the Ford Motor Design Center in Dearborn. Marcel approached each day of his distinguished 42-year career at the Ford Motor Company with enthusiasm and dedication. He also forged and maintained friendships that remained throughout his life.

Marcel traveled extensively through the United States and Europe, including a ski trip to the Alps. It was during a trip to Paris, in April 1962, on the Eiffel Tower, that he met the love of his life, Patricia Hase. They were married in May 1964 and most recently celebrated their 61st wedding anniversary. They welcomed 3 sons Mike, Denver, CO, Chris (Gini) Kalamazoo, MI and Marc (Jill) Denver, CO.

Marcel was first and foremost a devoted father. Whether he was coaching his sons in little league, pulling their pop-up trailer on family road trips or spending days on the boat water skiing, his love was active, hands-on, and consistent. Each son knew their dad was always in their corner.

Marcel worked tirelessly to create a home for his family on his beloved Walnut Lake in West Bloomfield, MI. For over 50 years their home served as a gathering place for family celebrations, entertaining dear friends as well as their annual July 4th party. Marcel and Pat would winter in their little hamlet, Lauderdale By The Sea, Florida. At The Driftwood Beach Club, Marcel was known for his wit, his love to chat, his friendliness to all and his zest for life.

Later, Marcel became a doting Grandpa to Nicholas and Christian Rakowski, Kalamazoo, MI and Lucy and Charlie Rakowski, Denver, CO. He was often seen outside the batter’s box of his grandchildren’s baseball games, chirping at umpires and offering sound advice to the coaches as recently as this past spring. He was always present for sporting events, school functions and celebrations. Marcel took visible and vast pride in all his grandchildren’s accomplishments, and they loved their grandpa immensely.

Marcel was a strong, devoted husband, father and grandfather, a hard worker, a lifetime Detroit Tigers fan and a deeply loyal friend. Those who knew Marcel loved him dearly and he will be greatly missed.

A Mass and Celebration of Life will be held in Michigan at a later date. Details will follow.

To honor Marcel Rakowski’s memory, the family asks that, in lieu of flowers, you consider making a donation to Disabled American Veterans, Chapter 1, or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.