Josepha Croda

In Loving Memory of Nina

Josepha (Nina) Paredes Croda passed away on June 30, 2026 at the age of 88. She was born on March 19, 1938 in São Paulo, Brazil as the oldest of seven children. Nina was preceded in death by her beloved husband Antonio Croda and son Emerson Croda. She is survived by her loving daughter Claudia and son-in-law Mark Zayec and cherished grandchildren Sabrina (Jerred) Zayec, Cole Zayec, Averton Croda and Jonathon Croda.

Nina will be remembered for her remarkable strength, unwavering faith, boundless compassion, generous spirit, and steadfast determination. Above all, she was deeply devoted to her family, whose love was the foundation of her life.

From a young age, Nina possessed an extraordinary drive and work ethic. By the age of 25, she had become the General Manager of a luxury shirt manufacturing company, a remarkable achievement that reflected her leadership, dedication, and perseverance.

In 1970, Nina courageously left her homeland with her husband and their two young children to begin a new chapter in Michigan, supporting her husband’s dream of building a career in the automotive industry. Starting over in a new country brought many challenges, but Nina met each one with grace and determination.

After learning English, she recognized an opportunity to build something of her own. She purchased a small dry-cleaning drop-off station and, through hard work and entrepreneurial vision, transformed it into a successful full-service dry-cleaning business offering professional tailoring. Her commitment to excellence led to the expansion of multiple locations, creating a lasting legacy of dedication and service to her community.

Throughout her life, Nina faced numerous health challenges with extraordinary courage and resilience, never allowing adversity to diminish her spirit or her love for those around her.

In retirement, she and her beloved husband embraced a passion for travel, exploring destinations across the United States and around the world. Yet no journey brought her greater joy than spending time with her children, grandchildren, extended family, and cherished friends. Her home was always filled with warmth, laughter, and unconditional love.

Nina touched countless lives through her kindness, wisdom, and gentle guidance. She had a gift for making others feel welcomed, valued, and cared for. Her quick wit, infectious sense of humor, and radiant smile brought comfort and joy to all who knew her.

Though our hearts are heavy with her passing, we find comfort in the countless memories she leaves behind and in the enduring example of a life lived with courage, faith, generosity, and love.

Nina will be deeply missed, forever remembered, and always loved. Her legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her.