WESTFIELD: Katherine (Katie) Wanda Swochak (1919-2016) passed peacefully in her home on Friday evening, March 4, 2016. She was born into the Stroiney family in Windsor Locks, CT. On October 26, 1919. Her education was in local schools and her early work was in private homes in the greater Hartford area. Both of her parents and all 5 of her siblings pre-deceased her.
Katherine met the love her life, Thomas R Swochak, at a dance and they were married while he was on leave during the war. They made their home in Westfield, Massachusetts, where they remained throughout the 56 years of their marriage.
Katherine devoted her life to raising her family. She was the mother of a daughter and a son. She also assumed guardianship of her niece, Peggy, whom she welcomed into her home and her heart.
Always busy, Katherine lived a long and productive life. In addition to home making and agricultural work, she was employed in various factories and at the Strathmore Paper Mill. As her carpenter husband’s assistant, she constructed and renovated several homes.
Visiting with family and friends, dancing to Polka music, baking muffins and pastry, as well as playing both cards and bingo were activities that Katherine enjoyed. She was a lover of animals, caring for dogs and cats throughout her life. Crocheting and knitting were two of Katie’s passions. She worked with threads and yarns, creating functional items of beauty. Of particular note are countless afghans, Christmas decorations, and unique dolls that she designed and created.
Katherine’s passing is felt deeply by those she leaves behind: her son, Thomas Swochak and his wife, Sally Barber, of Westfield; her daughter, Judy Wzorek and her partner Paul, of Chicopee; and grand daughters Wendy Sutter of Chicopee, and Sherri Henshaw and her husband, Daniel, of Chesterfield. Katie will be missed by her great grand children: Ashley and Kelsey Henshaw, and Ricky and Randy Cayo. In addition, Katherine leaves three great great grand children: Gabriella and Noah Cayo, and Daniel Knox. No one misses Katherine more than her dear cat, Ginger, who was her constant companion until the very end.
The Robert E Cusack Funeral Home in Westfield is assisting the family with arrangements. A Springtime burial is planned. As there will be no viewing hours, people are invited to share memories or comments on line at Robert E Cusack Legacy.com
