Erika J. Toliusis

Erika J. Toliusis, 78, of Paw Paw, passed away January 1, 2020 in Kalamazoo, MI.
She was born June 30, 1941 in Germany, the daughter of the late Joseph and Emila Toliusis.
Erika migrated to the United States with her family at a young age. Erika's family eventually made their way to Paw Paw where she lived on the family farm and went to school.. After graduating from Paw Paw in 1959, she took her chance to travel around the United States a bit, spending time in California, Reno and Chicago' She returned to Paw Paw to be closer to her family.  While she wasn't a social butterfly, she had many people she called friend.  She sure could throw a theme party and everyone invited was thrilled to go.  One of the most memorable was the Speak Easy party that she had, complete with flapper dresses, booze in tea cups, and gambling tables.  Erika worked for Van Buren County Mental Health since 1976. She worked hard, taking on sewing jobs when extra money was needed.
She is survived by her daughter, Kimberly (Steve) Toliusis-Terry,  grandson, Seth Terry, Todd  (Pam) Sikkema, Bradley Sikkema, sister, Aldona (late Charlie) Gabro, sister, Betty (Cliff)  Rierson, brother, Vete (Linda) Toliusis, brother in law, John Breitenbach, sister in laws, Mary Toliusis and Kathy Toliusis and many nieces and nephews. Erika was preceded in death by her brothers, Al Toliusis and Bruno Toliusis, sisters, Alma Breitenbach, Irene Toliusis, Helen (Sam) Schaafsma, Gertrude (John) Zabukas, and Emila Toliusis.
The family will receive friends on Saturday, January 11, 2020 beginning at 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm at the Adams Funeral Home, 502 West Michigan Ave, Paw Paw where funeral services will commence at 2:00 pm with Father Joseph Xavier officiating. Cremation will follow services. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to the family.