Obituary: Paula Louise Saft

Paula Louise Saft (April 14, 1956 –May 22, 2022)

On May 22, 2022, Paula Louise Saft passed away after continuing to defy the odds of her battle with cancer. Born to Mary and Harry Johnson on April 14, 1956, she was the eldest of four siblings. She graduated from Manchester High School in 1974, and was heavily involved in the German Club, traveling to Germany in the spring of her junior year. Unbeknownst to her at that time, her love of the German culture was to play an even larger role in her life, leading her into her career and lighting a pathway  where she met and fell in love with her husband, Richard Saft.

After marrying in 1990, they made their home in Manchester, raising Paula’s three children. She taught her children to be strong, compassionate, and independent, much like herself. Anyone who had a moment to speak with her, could be able to identify how these key qualities resonated throughout her quiet demeanor. As her children grew, her heart continued to as well, and she opened her home to family and friends from afar for laughter, a warm meal, and a place to stay. This welcoming presence not only could be seen in the ways she loved her family and friends, but also the countless animals she rescued and without hesitation gave a forever home.

Paula loved her family and friends unconditionally. She will always be remembered for her incredible smile, unwavering faith, caring nature, positivity, and fierce determination. She is survived by her beloved husband, Richard Saft; her children, Mary Dettling, Joanna (Daniel) Scott, and Pete (Heather) Dettling; two grandchildren, Cody (Amber) Sroufe and Charli Dettling; her parents, Mary and Harry Johnson; her siblings, Julie (Mark) Murray, Diana Johnson, and Pete Johnson; several nieces and nephews; numerous cousins; and many close friends.

Paula‘s family and friends will gather on Tuesday, May 31, 2022 from 4pm until 7pm at Eineder Funeral Homes - Manchester Chapel (207 E. Duncan St., Manchester, MI 48158). Paula’s Memorial Mass will be held on Wednesday, June 1, 2022 at 11am; gathering to begin at 10am, all being held at Saint Mary Roman Catholic Church, Manchester, Michigan (210 W. Main St., Manchester, MI 48158).

In lieu of flowers, donations can be sent to Michigan Medicine Cancer Center. Please leave a message of comfort for Paula’s family or sign her guestbook at www.EinederFuneralHomes.com.

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by Sara Swanson

Sara Swanson is an editor, writer and founder of the Manchester Mirror.