Eileen M. Surma

Eileen M. Surma, age 76, of Northville, passed away on September 20, 2024. She was born on May 26, 1948 in Detroit, Michigan; daughter of John J. and Elaine M. (McDonnell) Azarovitz. Raised in Detroit, Eileen was a 1966 graduate of Patronage of St. Joseph in Detroit. A devout catholic, she was a parishioner of St. Kenneth Catholic Church. Before moving to Northville, Eileen was a dedicated member of St. Alphonsus in Dearborn, where she was a longtime resident.

Eileen was always an organized and hardworking woman. As an Executive Assistant, the highlight of her career was in 2002 when she was able to merge her passion for sports with her profession by joining the executive administration team at the Detroit Tigers organization. Eileen served in this role until her retirement in 2018.

Since 1985, she had been a dedicated volunteer for Kids Without Cancer (formerly known as Leukemia, Research, Life, Inc.), serving as Treasurer and providing steadfast support. Eileen prioritized family, teaching the importance of hard work and commitment. Over the years, she was a frequent volunteer in the schools, whether it was PTA, classroom help or as a field trip chaperone. As an active grandma, she followed her grandchildren’s sports and activities closely by watching in person or intently following online when she was unable to attend. She always lit her prayer candle for her grandkids during important life moments and was sure to call or text each of them with words of encouragement and support. Eileen was a gifted crocheter, a bingo enthusiast, and a passionate sports fan. Her deep love for dogs was evident in her bond with her beloved companion, Prince, who gave her unconditional love. While small in stature, she was tough and resilient but above all, she had a huge heart that impacted so many.  She will be profoundly missed by all who knew her.

Eileen is survived by her loving children, Dan (Susie) Surma, Lisa (Dave) Gann, and Lori (Joe) Dertouzos; her siblings, Mary Ellyn Merpi, her twin sister Elaine (Bill) Biga, and Paul Azarovitz; her sister-in-law, Mary Anne Azarovitz; and her grandchildren, Josh Surma, Matt Dertouzos, Kate Dertouzos, Colin Gann, Dylan Surma, and Caleb Gann. She is also loved by her nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Jack Azarovitz, and her brother-in-law Tony Merpi.

Memorial visitation will be held Tuesday, October 1, 2024 from 11:00 a.m. until noon with mass beginning at noon at St. Kenneth Catholic Church, 14951 North Haggerty Road, Plymouth, MI 48170.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to Kids Without Cancer , PO Box 32783, Detroit, Michigan 48232.