Maria Elena Estrada, 70, of Sylvania, Ohio, passed away peacefully Saturday, October 7, 2023. Maria was born January 25, 1953, in Toledo, Ohio to Alfredo and Filiverta (Ibarra) Estrada. In 1971, Maria graduated from Waite High School. Maria was a dedicated law enforcement officer for 27 years. She served as a patrol officer with the Wayne, Ohio Police Department, lieutenant with the West Milgrove, Ohio Police Department and served at the Lucas County Sheriff's Office as a Deputy in the jail, the marine patrol, and undercover vice squad, retiring in 2007. Maria cherished the time spent with her family. She enjoyed playing bingo, gambling, listening to music, and arts & crafts. She also enjoyed camping at Bay Point in Marblehead, Ohio and Green Valley in Morenci, Michigan. Her cherished grandchildren remember her for the countless adventures to the Toledo Zoo, Cedar Point, Six Flags, Kalahari, Great Wolf Lodge, and relaxing by the pool. Maria's skills as a seamstress were spectacular – she crafted handmade blankets, curtains, clothing, and shared her skills in the uniform department at the Sheriff's Office. Her greatest gift was her love of cooking. Maria loved to cook grand meals of traditional Mexican dishes for her family, friends, and co-workers.

Maria is survived by her children Catrice (Mike) Boik & Eric Estrada; grandchildren, Derek, Matthew, Enrique, Amaya, Allie, and Anabel; half-brother, Roberto Rodriguez; brothers-in-law, Jose "Lupe" Oviedo and Jeff McClain; her cat Spooky; along with many nieces, nephews, loving family members, co-workers, and friends. Preceded in death by her parents; brother, Juan "Bebe" Estrada; grandson, Eric Estrada II; sisters, Olga McClain and Delma Oviedo; and sister-in-law, Becky (Peregoy) Estrada.

A Celebration of Maria's life will be held at Lake Township Cemetery at a future date. Expressions of sympathy may be directed to the Lupus Foundation of America. Eggleston Meinert Pavley Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.