Grace was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin on October 9, 1918. She was the daughter of John and Martha (nee Schallock) Kessler. She was one of nine children born to the Kesslers. She graduated from North Division High School in Milwaukee and worked for a time in manufacturing before she met her husband, Anthony “Tony” Waraksa. They married on February 18, 1939.

Grace was a full-time housewife and raised five children; Kathleen (Robert) Charter of Gaastra, MI; Christine (Gordon) Polder of Menomonee Falls, WI; Martha (Thomas) Janswig of Germantown, WI; Elizabeth (Steven) Pomeroy of Caspian, MI; John (Karen) Waraksa of Menomonee Falls, WI. She survived all her siblings and in-laws and died at the age of 102 on October 27, 2020. Surviving her are nieces, nephews, five grandchildren, and two great grandchildren. 

Grace spent her last years in Port Washington, WI living at Ellen’s Home where she was cared for and loved by staff and friends alike.

Her wishes were that she be cremated and there be no visitation. Private services will be held with family at the burial site in Stambaugh Cemetery, MI where she will be laid to rest next to her husband.

Schmidt & Bartelt Funeral Home in Menomonee Falls, WI is serving the family.