Obituary of Arthur J. Makarewicz

April 22, 1949 – December 30, 2023 

Arthur J. Makarewicz.  Age 74 of River Rouge.

Cremation will take place at The On-Site Crematory, located within Molnar Funeral Homes - Brownstown Chapel. 

Family Tribute

Arthur “Art” Jeffrey Makarewicz, age 74, of River Rouge passed away on December 30, 2023.

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Arthur "Art" Jeffrey Makarewicz on December 30, 2023, at the age of 74. Art was a devoted father, a proud grandfather, a respected community leader, and a cherished friend.

Art leaves behind a legacy of love and warmth as the loving father of Arthur Makarewicz Jr and Jodi (Chris) Huber. He was a proud Grandpa to Luke, Miles, Nora, Marlow, and the late Taleah. Art was the cherished son of the late Anthony and Josephine Makarewicz, and the dearest brother of Al J (Patti), Alan (Nancy), Toby, and the late Walter and Joan (Bill). Dearly loved son-in-law of the late Tony and Madge Guarino, Art was a beloved member of the Guarino family. He was the former husband of Toni Jo Guarino and a cherished brother-in-law to Tim (Patricia) Guarino, Bob (Janet) Guarino, Jan (John) LaVeque, Lisa Burk, Paul Burk, Lori Napiantek, Kevin McGill, Chris (Jennifer) Guarino, and John (Tracy) Guarino. He was a treasured uncle to many nieces, nephews, as well as great-nieces and nephews.

A proud graduate of River Rouge High School, Class of 1967, Art went on to earn his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Lawrence Technological University in 1976. His professional journey was marked by diverse roles, beginning with dedicated service at the City of River Rouge Department of Public Works and as the Director of the City of River Rouge Veterans Memorial Recreation Complex. Art's commitment to public service continued with his tenure at the River Rouge Fire Department, where he eventually retired as Captain.

Beyond his firefighting and Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) career, Art was an active contributor to the River Rouge community, serving on the River Rouge School Board, first as Treasurer and later as Secretary. Even in retirement, Art's commitment to his community extended to volunteering in various capacities in the City of River Rouge.

In addition to his civic engagements, Art maintained a second job as a skilled bookkeeper and tax preparer, providing support to numerous businesses and individuals in the community.

Art's passion for community service was matched only by his love for golfing, hunting, and fishing, activities he enjoyed during countless vacations. His willingness to lend a helping hand and his unwavering dedication to making a positive impact on those around him will forever be remembered.

In loving memory of Art, we invite you to consider memorial donations to River Rouge No Kids Without A Christmas. This local organization extends its support beyond the holiday season, ensuring children receive backpacks and essential supplies at the beginning of the school year, warm winter coats, hats, gloves, and Christmas presents annually. Checks can be made payable to, No Kids Without A Christmas, and mailed to:

No Kids Without A Christmas, c/o City of River Rouge, 10600 W Jefferson Ave, River Rouge, MI 48218

In honoring Art's vibrant spirit, let us come together to celebrate a life well-lived, remembering the joy he brought to each of us and the lives he touched throughout his journey.

A Celebration of Life for Art will be held on Saturday, February 10, 2024, at 12 pm at The Biddle Hall, 3239 Biddle Ave, Wyandotte, MI. The service will start promptly at 12:30 pm, followed by a luncheon. Guests are encouraged to share their memories and stories of Art during the event.