Osceola – Maria Louisia Nawrocki, 80, passed away peacefully on May 14, 2026, surrounded by her loving family, following her courageous journey with Alzheimer’s disease.

Maria was born on March 10, 1946, in South Bend to the late Evan and Elsie (Gibson) Bowman. She was a graduate of Washington High School, Class of 1964. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, John (Sally) Bowman, and her sisters, Crystyline and Marsha.

Maria is survived by her beloved children, Angela (David) Failla, Pamela (John) Ritzler, and Donna (Mike) Creech; her cherished grandchildren, Tyler (Edie) Failla, Nathan, Lucas, and Mikaela Ritzler, and Kylie and Cassie Creech; and her treasured great-grandson, Harrison Failla. She is also survived by Robert Nawrocki, with whom she shared the joy of raising their three daughters. Her greatest joy in life was her family, and she never missed an opportunity to attend her children’s and grandchildren’s sporting events and activities. She especially loved creating special memories with her grandchildren, welcoming them to her home for sleepovers with late-night movies, popcorn, and slushies. Even as Alzheimer’s took so much, it never diminished the love she had for her family. She was also a devoted Clay Aiken fan and treasured traveling to attend his concerts with her friends whenever she could. Maria found happiness when tending to her garden and caring for her beloved cats. She will be remembered for her loving heart, unwavering devotion to her family, and the warmth she shared with everyone who knew her.

She attended Granger Community Church. She retired from Duley Press, which became like a second family to her, and she treasured the friendships she built there. She also enjoyed working part-time at Bob’s Super Store, where she could remain close to extended family and friends.

Family and friends are invited to gather for a memorial visitation on Friday, May 22, 2026, from 4:00 to 6:00 PM at Chapel Hill Funeral Home, followed by a memorial service at 6:00 PM.

Chapel Hill Funeral Home has been entrusted with arrangements.