Community mourns loss of State Rep. Plawecki, a dedicated public servant

DEARBORN HEIGHTS – The local community is grieving over the untimely death of State Representative Julie Plawecki, 54, who died on Saturday, June 25, from a presumed heart attack while she was hiking with her daughter in Oregon.

Plawecki, who was serving her first term in Michigan’s 11th District, which covers portions of Dearborn Heights, Livonia, Westland and all of Inkster and Garden City, was hailed as an activist and dedicated public leader by both Democratic and Republican legislators and others who knew her.

She served on two House committees: Energy and Natural Resources.

Prior to serving in the Michigan House, Plawecki was already widely known in the community. She was a medical technologist and a teacher of science, math and religion at the elementary and secondary levels.

She had received her bachelor’s degree from Oakland University and her professional teaching certificate from the University of Michigan – Dearborn.

Plawecki was the wife of 20th District Court Judge Mark Plawecki. Together they had three daughters, Rachel, Lauren and Monica.

State Sen. David Knezek (D- Dearborn Heights) issued a statement on his Facebook page, mourning her loss. Plawecki succeeded Knezek as state rep. in the 11th district. The two often formed a coalition on similar issues and attended functions together.

“Julie was just a great woman, that's all there is to it,” Knezek said. “She was whip smart. She had a heart of gold. She was a bulldog on issues she cared about. She was a bulldog on issues you cared about, too. She was the epitome of class.”

Rep. Jon Hoadley, (D-Kalamazoo), said in a Facebook post that he got to know Plawecki during the time they spent together on the House Floor.

“Her energy and commitment meant that she showed up for you, so you wanted to show up for her,” Hoadley wrote. “She would literally drive across the state to show up at a tour because one of her friends in the Legislature — on either side of the aisle — was arranging it. She remembered birthdays and major events. She cared.”

Governor Snyder issued a statement, stating that Plawecki’s passing has devastated both parties in the house.

“Representative Plawecki's passing is a shock to us all and Michigan has lost a fine and dedicated public servant,” Snyder said. “The outpouring of support and grief from both sides of the aisle in both chambers of the Legislature are a testament to how much Julie cared about serving her constituents and the state of Michigan well and with distinction.”

Wayne County Executive Warren Evans highlighted her work in the community in a brief statement.

“I am saddened to learn of Dearborn Heights State Rep. Julie Plawecki's passing,” Evans said. “Her career as a teacher and her time in the legislature are a testament to her commitment to our community. My thoughts and prayers are with her husband, Mark, and her three daughters.”

Dearborn Heights Mayor Daniel Paletko said he will most remember Plawecki's commitment and concern for the community.

“She was very dedicated to education and concerned that all kids in Michigan receive a first-class education,” Paletko said. “She was always very concerned about her constituents’ problems and would call me and follow up if it was municipal-related.”

Plawecki was widely known for her humanitarian work. She often dedicated her time and services to Project Dignity Outreach, a local community organization that feeds the homeless in Detroit.

On Sunday afternoons, the non-profit group gathers on Third Street to pass out warm meals to poverty-stricken groups, donated by community members.

But on Sunday, June 26, less than 24 hours after Plawecki’s passing, members of Project Dignity Outreach were feeling her absence.

“Today’s picnic was tough for many, as we are grieving the loss of a very dear friend and supporter of Project Dignity Outreach,” said President Nahid Ayoub. “She was a kind soul who meant so much to so many. She was a humanitarian who touched the lives of others with her generous heart and I am thankful I had the chance to know someone like her. We all come together every Sunday to do what we can for those who need help and bond in the process. Many bonded so easily with Julie, as she was just such a warm and caring woman.”

Brian Stone, a State Representative candidate for the 15th District, who frequently participated with Plawecki on Project Dignity’s Sunday gatherings, said the organization plans to hold a homeless feeding in Plawecki’s honor on an upcoming date.

“It's the best way we can think to honor the memory of an angelic human being who touched the lives of so many,” Stone said.

Plawecki was running unopposed in the August 2 primary for re-election to her seat. Democratic precinct delegates will soon select three candidates to fill her vacancy on the ballot.

A memorial gathering for Plawecki will take place at Divine Child in Dearborn at 1055 N. Silvery Lane, on Saturday, July 2 at 9:30 a.m.

Gov. Snyder ordered U.S. and Michigan flags within the Capitol complex and the 11th District of the House of Representatives to be lowered to half-staff on July 2 in honor of the State Rep.

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