“We rise up by lifting others up.” – R. Ingersoll

Maria Purol, age 70, fought for her final breath on Oct. 19, 2018. Born in Austria, Maria came to the United States at age 3 by boat to Ellis Island and eventually settled in Oxford.

She later made Lansing her home and was devoted to Waverly Schools for over 40 years before retiring. She was best known for her mouth-watering cinnamon rolls.

Maria is survived by her daughters Kim (Ken) Kramer, Sue (Tony) Garza and Carrie (Todd) Hill as well as her sister Kelly Theriot and brothers Pete and Chris Olinicenco. She also had three grandchildren, Anthony and Nathon Garza and Gerrit Hill as well as many faithful friends, coworkers and students.

Maria will be reunited with her parents, Dimitri and Louisa, and her brother-in-law Dick.

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting monetary donations to be made to Waverly Schools for a college scholarship in honor of Maria’s service to the community. Donations may be sent to or dropped off at the Waverly Administration Building, Waverly Education Foundation Scholarship in memory of Warrior Maria Purol at 515 Snow Rd. Lansing, MI 48917.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Arrangements are entrusted to Lehman Funeral Homes. Online condolences may be made at lehmenfuneralhomes.com.