Julia Diann Scheid

On Thursday, May 14, just before dawn, surrounded by her loving family, Julia Diann Scheid peacefully slipped away from us, escaping the cruel effects of dementia, a disease she courageously battled for several years.
She will be lovingly remembered by her children, Tom (Paula) Scheid, Theresa (Dan) Johnson, Brian Scheid, James (Meg) Scheid; grandchildren, Jenny (Luke) Carney, Jason (Kate) Scheid, Dom (Karla) Smigiel, Julie (Brent) Catherino, Bridget (Vic) Weidner, Kayla (Tyler) Lapp, Lydia Johnson, Savannah Scheid, Nicole Scheid; 15 great grandchildren; brother, Rev. Anthony Vainavicz, sister-in-laws, Rae Marie Vainavicz and Karlene Vainavicz, and several nieces and nephews.

Julia is preceded in death by her son, Joe Scheid, Jr.; grandson, Kyle Johnson; brothers, William, Ben and Don; sister-in-law, Dolorine Vainavicz.

Julie was raised on the West Side of Grand Rapids and graduated from Catholic Central High School in 1951.

After graduating from high school, she worked at the Bissell Corporation before marrying and devoting herself to creating a warm and immaculate home. Of all the roles she cherished throughout her life, her greatest joy was being a mom. She raised a daughter and four sons who blessed her with grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and a great-great-grandchild due in June.
Julie was a devout Catholic who lived her faith every day. Having grown up next door to St. Peter and St. Paul Parish, she later became a lifelong parishioner of St. Jude’s, where she was actively involved in many parish activities. Her life was deeply rooted in her faith and centered around her beloved family and many dear friends.

Her family has fond memories of the many special occasions when they enjoyed her “made from scratch” German Chocolate Cake, the special “Phil’s Chocolate Cake,” and her Alsukis. Wednesday mornings were never complete without family and friends gathered around her table, sharing coffee, cheese and crackers, sliced summer sausage, and, of course, something sweet.

Julie loved music, especially polkas. Her favorite, the “Clarinet Polka,” was on her top requested list at weddings. Because of her love for the arts she encouraged her children to pursue their various talents in music and art. She also cherished her walks, during which she connected with neighbors and made many friends throughout the years.

Spending time with her family was important to Julie. Vainavicz family gatherings were fun-filled days of golf, bowling and great conversation. Her hobbies were diverse. While she loved a day at the “spa” and shopping, you would also find her at the Berlin Raceway cheering on her great grandson, Andrew.

Julie took a great interest in the lives of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, never missing a birthday or special occasion. She always greeted them with a warm hug and a willingness to listen. Julie also cherished her wonderful group of friends, meeting them monthly for lunch where she enjoyed catching up and sharing stories from her life.

Julie lived each day grounded in her faith in God and deep love for family and friends. While her passing leaves a void that cannot be filled, her memory will remain a lasting source of comfort
Memorial Mass will be held at 11 am, Friday, May 22 at St. Jude Parish, 1120 4 Mile Road NE, Grand Rapids, with Rev. Ayub Francis Nasar officiating.  Burial will be held at St. Peter and Paul Cemetery.  Relatives and friends may meet the family Thursday from 5-8 pm at Matthysse Kuiper DeGraaf Funeral Home, 1601 Post Drive NE, Belmont, and at the church 1 hour prior to the service.  All are welcome to pray the Rosary on Thursday, May 21, beginning at 7:30 pm at the funeral home. Those who wish may make memorial contributions to Interim Hospice or St. Jude Catholic Church.  Condolences may be sent online at www.mkdfuneralhome.com