Did you know that St. Hedwig Cemetery spans 70 acres? It stands as a serene Catholic cemetery and mausoleum in Dearborn Heights. Founded in 1924, St. Hedwig Cemetery is operated by the Conventual Franciscans of Saint Bonaventure Province. They ensure the dignity and sacredness of this hallowed ground.
The cemetery is named for Saint Hedwig of Andechs. She was from Bavaria. Interestingly, it wasn’t named for Jadwiga of Poland. She was the Queen of Poland. She was canonized much later in 1997.
St. Hedwig Cemetery has beautifully landscaped grounds. Exquisite statues and shrines dot the landscape. The Stations of the Cross add to the spiritual ambiance. Over 50 varieties of ornamental trees grace the grounds. The American Arbor Association has recognized this diverse collection.
The grounds offer a place for reflection. Large monuments and headstones mark individual burials. Special markers honor soldiers and babies.
In the Victorian era, cemeteries were designed as peaceful places. Families visited departed members. They cleaned graves and strolled around winding streets. They sometimes even enjoyed picnics.
St. Hedwig Cemetery is a final resting place for many families and friends. The first known adult burials included Wojciech Piestrak and Anna Igbielska. Ignacy Stefanski and Katarzyna Kudron also rest here. Josephine Golec, Adam Rogaczewski, and Stefan Furtak were among the first. Their graves are in Section I, Lot 1.
Consider Wojciech Piestrak. He was born in Zołynia, Łańcut, Galicia in 1884. He emigrated in 1910 to Detroit. He joined his brother-in-law Andrzej Koldraz. Wojciech married MaryAnn Biedron in 1916 at St. Hedwig Church. He worked at the Solvay Process Company. He died of lobar pneumonia in 1924. He was only 37 years old.
Franciscan priests and sisters are buried in the Shrine section. Flowers adorn the path. Candles are lit in November to remember them. Section J is the resting place for babies and little children. Mary Krol, Alex Bobowski, Henry Wolan, and Joseph Rutkowski are buried there.
Several World War I soldiers rest in Section I. August Klonowski, Anthony Janiga, Andrew Kloc, and Joseph Maksimik are among them.
The cemetery expanded in the 1960s. The mausoleum was dedicated in 1968. Columbariums were built for cremains. The Catholic Church allows cremation. Cremains should be buried with dignity.
St. Hedwig Cemetery serves Catholic families. It welcomes their relatives. This means that even if you are not Catholic, you can be buried here. If you’re related to a baptized Catholic, you are eligible. This applies directly or through marriage.
Daniel S. Paletko is interred here. He was a state representative. He was also the mayor of Dearborn Heights. Olympic figure skater Chris Bowman is also buried at St. Hedwig.
Remember the traditions of St. Hedwig Cemetery. The cemetery maintains high standards. An endowed care fund ensures future generations benefit. Compassionate staff guide families. They offer financial alternatives. Pre-need planning is available. St. Hedwig Cemetery offers a peaceful and sacred space. It honors loved ones. It embraces faith and heritage.