Dena, of Commerce, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and cherished friend, passed into eternal life on the evening of Wednesday, February 19, 2025, at Trinity Health Oakland Hospital in Pontiac. She was 80 years old.

Dena was born July 4, 1944, in Dearborn, to the late Joseph and Marjorie (Vollick) Sowa.  She married Larry D. Flowers on April 10, 1965, at First Baptist Church in Dearborn.

Dena's life was one of passion, dedication, and unwavering love for her family. She was born and raised in Dearborn and later built a loving home for her family in Dearborn Heights. In her early years, she was an accomplished artistic roller-skater, a talent that led her to meet the love of her life, Larry. Their shared passion for skating began at the Skate Arena in Adrian, Michigan, and together they won many championships. As coaches, they guided numerous students to national titles, leaving a lasting legacy in the sport.

Beyond the rink, Dena found success as a real estate agent with Real Estate One in Plymouth from the early 1990's. She loved her profession and approached it with the same determination and confidence that defined her life. Known for her direct nature, fierce loyalty, and protective spirit, she was a pillar of strength to those she held close.

A woman of style and grace, Dena had an impeccable sense of fashion and took pride in always being put together. She had a youthful appearance and carried herself with confidence and elegance. Her independence was unmatched, and her dedication to her family was unwavering. As the family's "rock," she provided love, support, and wisdom, always keeping her loved ones connected.

Dena adored the beach and treasured family vacations to Florida, Beulah, and Higgins Lake. She loved boating and spending time near the water, making memories with those she loved most. She also had a deep appreciation for nature. She enjoyed watching and feeding the birds, squirrels, and chipmunks.  Her yard was always filled with beautiful flowers in every season, from lily of the valley to dinner plate dahlias, and she especially cherished poinsettias during the holidays.

Her creative talents knew no bounds—she was a gifted artist, a meticulous crafter, and an expert seamstress, lovingly sewing Halloween costumes for her children and pulling all-nighters to perfect skating outfits before competitions. A perfectionist in all she did, she took great pride in preparing home-cooked holiday feasts, crafting every dish from scratch for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter.

Dena was the eldest living cousin in a large and loving Polish family, where she embraced traditions of togetherness, laughter, and friendly competition. Some of her fondest memories included summers at Camp Dearborn, playing bocce ball, cards, dice, and dominos with her extended family. An avid reader, she cherished quiet moments with a good book.

She had a warm and witty personality, laughing easily and bringing joy to those around her. She was fun, sharp, and full of life. More than anything, she was her family's biggest fan. No matter the weather or the distance, she attended every single one of her children's and grandchildren's sporting events—cheer competitions, wrestling meets, basketball, football, and track meets—always there to cheer them on.

Dena also had a special love for Boxers and always had one by her side, except for a brief time when the family had a giant Great Dane named Bundy. Her current beloved Boxer, Tyson, was her loyal companion.

Above all, Dena was a woman of faith, a believer in Jesus, and an encourager to those around her. She was proud of her family, and her legacy of love, strength, and dedication will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

She will be deeply missed but forever remembered.

Dena is survived by her beloved husband of nearly 60 years, Larry; devoted daughters, Reneé (Rick) Vondrak and Dr. Robyn (Mike) Dragoo; and cherished grandchildren, Erik and Joe Vondrak, and Michael and Brian Dragoo, as well as a host of friends.

Family and friends may gather for visitation at the Heeney-Sundquist Funeral Home in downtown Farmington on Friday, February 28, from 4-8 pm.

Dena's funeral ceremony is planned for Saturday morning, March 1, at 11:00 am, also at Heeney-Sundquist.  Pastor Chris Cramer of Orchard Grove Community Church will preside.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be directed to Larry Flowers, 4049 West Maple Rd., Wixom, MI, 48383.

Private interment will take place Monday at Cadillac Memorial Gardens, Westland.