With loving hearts, we announce the passing of Theodore "Ted" Igielski, age 69, who went to be with the Lord on March 29, 2026, at Trinity Health Livonia Hospital. Ted lived a life marked by kindness, generosity, and quiet compassion for others.

Ted was born on November 3, 1956, in Detroit, Michigan, to the late Theophil and Ann Igielski. For much of his early life, he was known as Theodore, until one memorable Halloween when someone told him that "Theodore" was the only name worse than Eugene. From that day forward, he proudly went by "Ted," a name that suited his warm and easygoing spirit.

Ted was a man who gave freely, even when he had little. His generosity knew no bounds, and he never missed an opportunity to show others he cared. Holidays and birthdays were especially meaningful to him—everyone received a card, even the family dogs. Each year, Ted would ask for stamps as gifts so he could continue sending his thoughtful notes and reminders of love. He never forgot a birthday, anniversary, or a moment when someone might need a "thinking of you."

Though Ted faced challenges with speech at a young age, he never allowed it to define him. In fact, he once stole the show at a church Christmas play, where he sang "O Holy Night" perfectly—a moment that reflected his quiet strength and unforgettable presence.

Ted never complained about his disabilities or what he did not have. Instead, he lived with gratitude and a consistently positive outlook. Like his father, he never spoke an unkind word, never held a grudge, and always gave what he could to others.

He had many dear friends and found joy in life's simple pleasures. He especially loved Diet Coke, cheese pizza, and chips, and found happiness in sharing meals and going out to dinner. Christmas brought one of his favorite traditions: seeing just how many pierogies he could eat, with a record of twelve. Ted also loved calling his sister, Ann Marie, often reminding her when her favorite game, Plinko, was on The Price Is Right. He would always ask about his "little buddies," the dogs he loved so much—Ozzie, Dori, Ellie, Gracie, Scooby, and Rosie.

Though Ted's siblings were always his protectors throughout his life, his family now finds comfort in a different truth—Ted has simply taken his place at the front of that love. In a quiet, unspoken way, he has become their protector now, watching over each of them from Heaven with the same steady kindness, gentle loyalty, and unwavering care he carried throughout his life on earth. A truly good soul, Ted's love did not end—it simply changed its place, continuing on in every memory, every small act of kindness he left behind, and in the hearts of those who were blessed to know him.

And now, his journey gently comes to a close—not in absence, but in presence that remains. A life so full of quiet goodness, loyalty, and love leaves a mark that time cannot erase. Ted's big heart, which spent a lifetime giving to others, will be remembered always.

Ted is survived by his dear son, Rob (Susan) Basil; two grandchildren, Robert and Alayna; and his loving sisters, Ann Marie (Robert) Podlaski, Mary Ann (Roman) Fotchuk, and Barbara (Alex) Hrywnak. He is also survived by his beloved nieces and nephews, Bob Podlaski, Mary (Daniel) Harrison, Andrea (Steve) Hung, Matthew Fotchuk, Julie Fotchuk, Jon Hrywnak, and Andy (Kacie) Hrywnak.

Ted was especially close to his nephew Bobby, and niece Mary and her husband Daniel.  Ted always felt comfortable asking them for help with fixing his clock, TV or remote, or asking to order a pizza.  Bobby and Mary were always there to provide a ride for him to our family dinners.  Bobby, Mary and Daniel, truly showed their love for Ted.  He is already missed so much by them.

Family and friends may gather for visitation at the Heeney-Sundquist Funeral Home in downtown Farmington on Tuesday, April 7, from 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM.  The Rosary will be prayed at 7:00 PM.

Ted's Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:00 AM (in state at 9:30 AM) on Wednesday, April 8, at Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church, 23615 Power Rd., Farmington.

Interment will follow at St. Hedwig Cemetery, Dearborn Heights.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be directed to Communication Health, Advocacy & Therapy (CHAT) or the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) .