Dolores D'Ascenzo

Dolores D'Ascenzo

It was Friday, December 12, 1930. In the midst of the Great Depression, Herbert Hoover was president, Pope Pius XI was leading the Catholic Church and the #1 song was Rudy Vallee’s “You’re Driving Me Crazy.” Dolores Jablonski was born the daughter of Walter and Frances Jablonski, and the little sister of Walter, Frank, Tony, Charlotte and Helene. She grew up in Detroit, living much of her life with her parents, her brother Frank and cousin, Ron. She attended school at St. Stanislaus Catholic Church, the largest Polish parish school in Michigan at the time.

Dolores met and married Andy D’Ascenzo and soon had their first children, Tony and Robin, while still living in Detroit. While pregnant with their third child, Gary, they built a house in a new neighborhood in Redford Township, where Dolores stayed for over 50 years. Dolores and Andy were surrounded by loving neighbors, who became best friends for life.

Soon after moving to Redford, Gary was born, with Brian and Larry soon to follow. The family became members of St. John Bosco Catholic Church, where Dolores remained active until she moved from Redford many years later. She also volunteered and became very active in the Redford Suburban League, a charity organization which helped fundraise and donate to local causes.

A few years after moving to Redford, Andy and Dolores started Guardian Plumbing & Heating in their basement. Dolores answered the business phones and helped run the office, all while raising five children. As Guardian grew and a secretary was hired, Dolores was able to assume a somewhat normal life. Eventually, Andy was able to move the business out of the house.

When the children grew up, Dolores and Andy began their relationship anew. At one point, he took up golfing and, so they could be together more, she did as well. Their plans for the future were underway when tragedy hit. In August 1984, Andy suffered a fatal heart attack. Almost five years later, a second tragedy hit when Gary died in an accident. Dolores’s faith became stronger and carried her through these most difficult of times. Her faith continued to be a major force throughout her life.

Dolores eventually left Redford to live in Plymouth where she remained until her passing. Dolores and Andy were always active in her children’s lives. When her grandchildren entered the world, Dolores continued to be a big part of their lives as well. 

Dolores passed away November 20at the age of 89. Dolores is survived by her children Tony (Linda) D’Ascenzo, Robin (Jerry) Sindici, Brian (Janet) D’Ascenzo and Larry (Leslye) D’Ascenzo, grandchildren Andrew (Lisa) D’Ascenzo, Jake (Erica) D’Ascenzo, Quinn (Aly) D’Ascenzo, Alexandra D’Ascenzo and Nina D’Ascenzo, and great-grandchildren, Ian and Evie D’Ascenzo.

A private Memorial Service was held. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions to Angela Hospice will be appreciated.

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