Rachel L. Godek

Rachel Louise Godek passed away peacefully on January 30, 2025, in Akron, Ohio, just shy of her 85th birthday. She faced a courageous battle with lung cancer, demonstrating strength and grace until the end.

Born on March 3, 1940, in Monroe, Michigan, Rachel was the beloved daughter of William and Mary Neal. She grew up in Monroe alongside her siblings: William Neal (deceased), David Neal, Daniel Neal, Ralph Neal (deceased), Walter Neal (deceased), Lynda Sharpe (deceased), and Elaine Neal.

On December 31, 1957, Rachel married her soulmate, Stanley Luke Godek. Together, they built a life together, raising their family in Monroe and later Trenton, Michigan. Their marriage of 29 years was marked by unwavering support, particularly during Stanley’s own battle with lung cancer. Rachel stayed by his side battling the whole way with him. She lost her best friend on December 9, 1986, when he went to be with his friend and Savior, Jesus Christ.

She was the proud mother of five children: Stanza Saya (deceased) and husband Ashfaque Saya of Hilton Head, SC; Stanley Godek and wife Alejandrina of Indio, CA; Stephanie McHargue and husband Larry McHargue of North Ridgeville, OH; Starla Fevang of San Diego, CA; and Rachel Marie Godek of Arizona. Rachel adored her 13 grandchildren and two step-grandchildren, as well as her 11 great-grandchildren. She was overjoyed to recently learn of her first great-great-grandchild, expected later this year.

Rachel loved cooking, coin collecting, and was an avid reader who sought knowledge through books, magazines, and newspapers. She created cherished memories for her family through joyous holiday celebrations and unforgettable vacations.. She loved to spend time with her grandchildren: Rachel Burget, Andy Huber, Stephen McHargue, Loren McHargue,  Faris Saya, Christina Godek, Karla Garcia, Alix Garcia, and Ashley Garcia, Joseph Gload, Torrey Gload, Amy Gload, Jessie Gload, Troy Gload, and Alahna Gload.

With Jesus as her Lord and Savior, she found strength and peace in knowing God's goodness and love. Rachel's love will forever be cherished by her family and all who knew her.

A chapel service led by Rachel's niece, Sondra Sharpe, will be held at Roselawn Memorial Park, 13200 South Dixie Highway, LaSalle, MI 48145, on Wednesday, February 5, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., followed by a luncheon at Monroe Alliance Church, 3975 S. Custer Road, Monroe, MI 48161 at 12:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations of blanket throws and stuffed animals. These thoughtful gifts will be collected and, in the near future, delivered to the Seidman Cancer Center in Cleveland, OH, to bring comfort to other cancer patients and their families. These can be sent to Rupp Funeral Home 2345 South Custer Road, Monroe, MI 48161 Or to Stephanie McHargue 32177 Burnt Timber TRL, North Ridgeville, OH 44039. Monetary donations in Rachel's memory can be made to: Monroe Alliance Church

May Rachel’s memory inspire acts of kindness and compassion in her honor.