Stacie Lyn Sokolowski

Stacie Lyn Sokolowski (Jann), of Portage, passed away peacefully with her husband by her side on July 30, 2024, at the age of 53. Born on December 26, 1970, in Lansing, MI, to James and Delores (Wier) Jann, Stacie’s life was a shining example of love, creativity, and unwavering devotion to family and friends.

Throughout high school, Stacie was a valuable member of the swim team and a proud quarterback for the girls’ Powderpuff team. She graduated from Forest Hills Central High School in 1989. 

Afterwards, Stacie went on to further her education at Western Michigan University. It was at WMU that she encountered a serendipitous moment that would change her life forever—meeting John Sokolowski, the man who would become the love of her life. Their paths crossed when John was invited to speak about internships in one of Stacie’s exercise science classes. Shortly after, Stacie accepted an internship at Borgess Medical Center and the rest was history. 

They were married October 19, 1996, at St. Andrew's Cathedral in Grand Rapids. Together, they raised four children—Sherry, Ryan, Jenna, and Brady—who became the center of Stacie’s world.

Stacie’s career journey was one of dedication and versatility. She began her professional career at State Farm before transitioning into the role of a devoted stay-at-home mom to her four children. As her children grew, Stacie re-entered the workforce where her work was marked by the same care, commitment, and creativity she demonstrated in all aspects of her life. She started at Scholastic Book Fairs, playing a key role in encouraging a love of reading across Southwest Michigan. 

Later, Stacie began working in insurance again with her sister Tammy at Tricoast Advisors, LLC. She adored her team and had many fond memories with them such as cornhole tournaments, holiday parties, and family picnics. 

Those who knew Stacie will forever remember her as a creative genius, a loving and caring soul, and a selfless woman whose presence lit up every room she entered. Her talent for planning unforgettable parties and her boundless creativity left a lasting impression on everyone around her. Stacie found joy in cheering on Notre Dame Football, enjoying cherished trips with loved ones to South Bend and Mackinac Island, and cheering on all of her childrens’ sports. The beach was her haven, a place where she found peace and solace.

Above all, Stacie’s greatest joy was her family. She cherished the close bond she shared with her sisters, Terrie and Tammy, and loved creating memories with her father and children during their thrilling trips to amusement parks. Stacie also enjoyed the excitement of casino outings with her mother, husband, and friends. As a daughter-in-law, she brought warmth and kindness to the Sokolowski family, embracing them with the same love she gave to her own. 

Stacie is preceded in death by her father, James Jann; her sister, Sherry Jann; and her father and mother-in-law, Anthony and Rita Sokolowski. She is survived by her beloved husband of 27 years, John; her four children: Sherry, Ryan, Jenna, and Brady. She is also survived by her mother, Delores Jann, two sisters: Terrie (John) Kloosterman, and Tammy (Gary) VanderStelt, her nieces and nephews: Tayler (David) Sedlecky, Ashley (Ben) LaFave, Gary VanderStelt, and Greg VanderStelt. 

Stacie’s spirit lives on through the countless lives she touched with her warmth, compassion, and unwavering love. She was a fighter, a beacon of strength and resilience, and above all, a wonderful wife and mother whose legacy will endure in the hearts of her family and friends.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday, August 7, 2024, at 11am from St. Martin of Tours Catholic Church in Vicksburg. The family will receive friends on Tuesday from 4pm until 7pm and a rosary beginning at 6:30pm at the Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Home in Portage. There will also be a visitation one hour prior to the service at the church.  

While at www.amsfuneralhomes.com please take time to sign Stacie’s guestbook and/or share your favorite memory with her family. Those who wish may make contributions to the Karen Wellington Foundation. 

The Sokolowski family is being cared for by the Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Home, 5975 Lovers Lane, Portage, MI 49002 (269) 344-5600.