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At first it appeared that Tadeusz Grabowski, 49, of Harrison Township, was killed in a late night Saturday or early morning Sunday traffic crash. But results from a Monday autopsy determined Grabowski died from medical problems.

"He didn't die of injuries from the accident," said Lapeer County Sheriff's Lt. Gary Parks, who attended the autopsy. "According to Lapeer County Medical Examiner Dr. Charles Franckowiak, he died of heart disease."

A passing motorist discovered Grabowski, who was already deceased, inside his truck about 8:37 a.m. Sunday.

It is yet unknown exactly when the tragedy occurred.

"He was on his way to the family's house and 40 acres on Martus Road," said Lapeer County Sheriff's Sgt. Jeremy Herfert. "He never made it. He last spoke with his wife Jan. 5 at 6:45 p.m."

Grabowski's red 2003 Dodge Ram truck was found overturned in the east ditch of Churchill Road, south of Burnside Road. Investigation by Herfert revealed that Grabowski had been traveling southbound on Churchill Road from Burnside Road. His truck ran off the roadway left and continued into the steep ditch, then overturned on its roof.

"The main roads were clear, but the back roads were icy and slushy," Herfert said. "There were no yaw marks, indicating he slid right into the ditch."

Grabowski, who was self employed in an appliance business, and his wife were married for 25 years. The couple has three children, 22, 19 and 17. The two purchased the Martus Road home about five years ago and at first intended to make it their permanent residence. The plan was stalled because their children were involved in activities and friendships in Macomb County, said Herfert.

Susan Younger may be reached at (810) 664-0811, Ext. 8122 or susan.younger@lapeergroup.com