Pauline May Calka

Pauline M. Calka, died May 19, 2016 at her daughter's residence in Kalamazoo, Mich. Pauline was born in May 1925 in Norway, Mich. to Frederick and Alma Swanson. After graduating from Norway High, Pauline and 2 girlfriends left Norway for Detroit to work as riveters for the war project. It was in Detroit where she met Bronislau "Curley". He and his brother owned the restaurant 'The Finn'. They married in 1948. They, together owned and operated 'The Eat Shop' in Cass City until 1956. It was then that B.A. Calka Real Estate was started and Pauline became Curley's assistant for many years that followed. Pauline and Curley raised 5 daughters living in their home that also served as their business. Pauline loved to bake. Her kitchen was the social center for friends to gather for coffee, treats and political commentary. She was a lifelong Democrat and a proud Bernie fan, too! Her home with Curley was always open for an overflow of guests. Pauline always found room no matter how many people popped in, blankets everywhere. Pauline loved to dance, always looking forward to New Year's Eve parties and big band music. She loved engaging the staff and hospice workers in conversation, recounting funny stories of her past. Pauline was recently chosen to represent the Kalamazoo area to participate in a trip to Washington, D.C. to visit the War Memorial and White House. This was to honor both Curley, as a veteran, and Pauline, as a riveter during World War II. Sadly, she didn't make it to the June 4th event. Surviving her are her five daughters: Linda Calka, Carla (Jim) Cavanaugh, Mona (Gary) Compton, Cindy (George) Duba, and Lori Calka Brock; grandchildren Tiani Compton, Allie (Dary) Porter, Cameron Cavanaugh, Andrew Duba, Andrew Brock, Hailey Brock, Hannah Brock; and a great-grandson Benjamin Porter. Her sister Karen Salling, and sisters-in-law Dottie Calka and Helen Swanson; and many nieces and nephews. Pauline was predeceased by her husband Bronislau (Curley) in 2000 and her brother Fred Swanson. Cremation has taken place at Avink Funeral Home. There will be a gathering with family and friends on June 4 for food at 2 p.m. in Kalamazoo to celebrate Pauline's life. Please email carlacavanaugh29@gmail.com for further information. Pauline's favorite song was "Sentimental Journey" and indeed it was.