Margaret Jane Makowski

Margaret Jane Makowski, 88, of Paw Paw, MI, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on Thursday, January 22, 2026, at her home in Paw Paw.

She was born September 27, 1937, in North Girard, Pennsylvania, the daughter of Charles Hazen and Gladys (Miller) Hazen.

Jane obtained her Associates Degree in Nursing and worked as a Registered Nurse her entire working life. Jane and her husband, John, moved to Paw Paw in 1972, where Jane began working at Bronson Lakeview Hospital. Jane adored her job as a nurse and wanted nothing more than to help others. Her last nursing role was taking care of a young man in his home until his death. Outside of being his nurse, she became a true friend to him, and they shared many of the same interest, including sci-fi and watching the Young and the Restless together.

Jane was an animal lover and loved all animals, with dogs and horses being her favorite, however she had many figurines and pictures of wolves and big cats around her home as well. Jane enjoyed visiting the zoo's and giving her attention to the big cat exhibits. A woman of many hobbies, she could often be found doing puzzles, knitting, crocheting or researching family genealogy. Jane watched a lot of racing and wrestling in her down time as well. She enjoyed music and sang in the Paw Paw Community Chorus since 2007 and was a faithful member of Saint Mary's Catholic Church in Paw Paw. She will be deeply missed.

She is survived by her children, Stephen Gerard, Michele (Jeff) Sivley, Melissa (Gerald) Makowski and Mike (Vicki) Makowski; grandchildren, Rachel, Melissa, Clayton (Cheyenne), Stephanie, David, Ericka, Emily (Jarod) and Ethan; great-grandchildren, Cayla, Haylie and Clayton.

Jane is preceded in passing by her parents, husband, John Paul Makowski in 2020; daughter, Stephanie Anne Makowski and brother, C. Melville Hazen.

There will be a memorial mass held Wednesday, April 8, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Saint Mary Catholic Church, Paw Paw, with Fr. David Pinto officiating. Margaret will be placed to rest at Saint Mary Cemetery following mass. 

Memorial contributions may be directed to Paw Paw Community Chorus or Defenders of Wildlife.