Eileen Martinelli Obituary

Eileen Diana Martinelli, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully on July 7, 2025, at the age of 82. Born on January 31, 1943, in Detroit, Michigan, to the late Edward Szumski and Mary (Szafran) Szumski, Eileen grew up with a spirited heart that would carry her through a life defined by deep love, fierce loyalty, and unforgettable humor.
Eileen was the proud mother of her son, Erik Martinelli, and cherished daughter-in-law, Michelle Martinelli. She was also the loving mother of the late Leslie Martinelli, whose memory remained close to her heart every single day. Her devotion to her children knew no bounds - Eileen truly earned her honorary title, "Mom of the Year," which she wore proudly from 1971 until her final day in 2025.
Her heart expanded even more with the births of her grandsons, Vinny and Jude Martinelli. Eileen was their biggest fan, their secret keeper, and their safe haven. She found her greatest joy in showering her grandsons with unconditional love (and maybe slipping them a few of her favorite Jolly Ranchers along the way).
Eileen shared a special bond with her brother, David Szumski, and sister-in-law, Carmen. She was a beloved aunt to Elizabeth Williams, whose life she touched with warmth and laughter. To her extended family and the friends who loved her like a second mother, Eileen's door was always open, and so was her heart.
A lifelong resident of Michigan, Eileen was the legendary keeper of one of the most prolific basements in all of Lincoln Park. Her home was the gathering place - the spot where stories were swapped, jokes were cracked, and memories were made. It was a haven for anyone lucky enough to be part of her circle.
Eileen had a take-no-shit attitude - quite literally, with a pin to prove it - yet she balanced her boldness with immense generosity. She gave everything of herself and never asked for anything in return. Her passions painted a colorful portrait of her life: savoring Chinese food, sipping her medium coffee with precisely five creams and five sugars on the side, listening to her beloved Neil Diamond, dancing whenever "Come On, Eileen" played, and delighting in some sweet Jolly Rancher candy.
Eileen also had an extraordinary love of movies. In fact, she once took her children to see Raiders of the Lost Ark an astonishing 27 times in theaters - sparking Erik's passion for filmmaking and Leslie's lifelong adoration of Harrison Ford. Those countless popcorn-studded afternoons were more than entertainment; they were memories etched into her family's hearts forever.
Though our world feels emptier without her, we take comfort in knowing Eileen's story continues through the family she leaves behind and the countless lives she touched. Her laughter, sharp wit, stubborn strength, and deep, unwavering love will echo in the stories we tell and the traditions we carry on.
Visitation will be held on Friday, July 11, 2025 4:30 - 8:00 p.m. at Solosy Funeral Home.
Interment will follow on Saturday, July 12, 2025 9:30 a.m. at Our Lady of Hope Cemetery.