WLKM Radio 95.9 FM
Natalie Pukszta passed away peacefully of natural causes, surrounded by her children at her home in Rancho Palos Verdes, California on June 16th, 2022. She was 94. Natalie was a longtime Sturgis resident, educator, beloved mother, and wife.
Natalie grew up in Detroit, where she was crowned beauty Queen of Lutnia, a Polish social and singing club. She graduated from Cass Technical High School and Wayne State University, earning a bachelor’s degree in education. Natalie later earned a master’s degree in education from Western Michigan, attending night school while working full time and raising 3 children.
Natalie impacted and improved the scholastic lives of about a thousand students within the Sturgis and St Joseph County schools during a 30+ year educator career. She started teaching art, music and kindergarten at Wall and Wenzel Schools. Natalie’s career evolved into special education where she taught middle and high school students. At Sturgis High Natalie authored several innovative programs shared with other Michigan schools along with facilitating vocational opportunities for her own beloved high school kids. She ended her career in 1993 as an administrator overseeing multiple Special Education programs in St. Joseph County.
Natalie married Peter Pukszta in July 1954. They enjoyed a wonderful marriage and were well-known in Sturgis with Peters work as owner of the Firestone store and practicing their faith at Holy Angels Church. They retired to Florida and then relocated to California to be near their children and grandchildren. They celebrated 65th years of marriage prior to Peter’s passing in 2016.
Natalie is survived by her three children Camille Mills, Ron, and Mike Pukszta along with 5 grandchildren.
The family suggests a donation in Natalie’s memory consider the Alzheimer’s Association, 200 Turwill Lane Suite 6, Kalamazoo, MI 49006
