Renee Zwiefka, 92, of Manistee, passed away at home peacefully with her daughters by her side, on February 4th.   Born August 18,1933 in Huntington Beach, the daughter of the late Lester and Harriet Picardat. She was a 1951 graduate of Manistee High School. She married Donald William Zwiefka, on August 16th,1952 at Guardian Angels Church.

A devoted member of Guardian Angels Church and then Divine Mercy Parish, her faith was central in her life.  One of her passions was making and teaching many how to make rosaries. The Rosary Society, belonged for 27 years, sent out many of her rosaries to third world countries.    She took communion to the homebound parishioners.

For many years her and her Sister-in-law Sue Picardat planned summer excursions for all 13 kids, train rides to Traverse City Zoo, Interlochen picnics, beach days, Dune Scooter rides in Silver Lake, decorating Santa Christmas cookies, taffy pulls, and onion sandwiches.   She traveled with Dale, her brother and Sue (sister-in-law) to many destinations.  Russia was the one she talked about most.  So many stories and memories.

After raising her children, she was a Manager at Security National Bank.  She had many interests throughout her life.  One dear to her heart is her Japanese Garden in her back yard, that she worked long and hard on. She loved when others stopped by to visit and show off her hard work.  She started leather stamping and made many leather pieces for family. She was a 4-H leader for years and taught knitting.   Another passion was cooking, making breads, cakes, meat rolls, caramels, numerous family favorites.   She was always trying something new. Her nieces and nephews got lessons on their favorites too.

She is survived by her daughters, Jane Zwiefka (Mike), Ann Jaksa Rogers (deceased Mike), Sue Turner, Faye Zwiefka, Shirley Zwiefka (daughter-in-law).  Grandchildren, Julie Matthews (Darren), Abbey Ash (Scott), Ryan Zwiefka, Ashley Jaksa (Liz), John Revolt (Rachal), Katie Oviedo (Ben), Robbie Reyes, Dr. Rhiannon Robke (Jeffery), Sister-In-Laws: Sue Picardat and Pat Zwiefka. Many treasured nieces and nephews.

She is preceded in death by, husband: Donald William Zwiefka Sr., Son: Donald William Zwiefka Jr., daughter: Judy Zwiefka, son in law, Michael Rogers, parents: Lester and Harriet Picardat, brothers, Dale and Doug Picardat, brother-in-law William "Vic" Zwiefka, and her nephew, Father Bill Zwiefka.

We would like to give thanks to Linda Kruse, her special friend for her visits and treats and support to our family.  Many thanks to Sara Linke for getting her to church when she no longer drove.   Thank you to Hospice of Michigan team for their tender and loving care and support.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday, February 14, 2026 at Guardian Angels Catholic Church in Manistee at 11:00 a.m. with Reverend James Bearss celebrant. Burial will follow at Mount Carmel Cemetery also in Manistee.

Relatives, friends and the members of the Rosary Society will pray the Rosary on Friday evening at the Herbert Funeral Home in Manistee at 8:00 p.m. led by Reverend Shabu Kunnathoor. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Friday evening from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and on Saturday morning from 10:00 a.m. until leaving for the church at 10:40 a.m. The Herbert Funeral Home of Manistee is in charge of funeral arrangements.