WESTFIELD – Kathryn J. (Saidak) Danek, 94, passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, April 1st, 2025, surrounded by her beloved family. She was born in Westfield on May 4th, 1930, to the late Carl S. and Sophie K. (Marek) Saidak.
“Kay” as she was known to friends and family, grew up in Westfield and was a 1948 graduate of Westfield High School. She married her lifelong love and husband Michael A. Danek in April 1951, and they were married for 72 years before his passing in August 2023. Kay was a member of the former Westfield Elks Lodge #1481 where she enjoyed her favorite hobby playing BINGO on Wednesday nights. Besides being known as the best “Gram” anyone could ask for “there was no place like home—except for at Gram’s house.” Kay enjoyed knitting, sewing, baking, reading books, traveling and spending time with family at holiday gatherings and vacations in Old Orchard Beach.
To cherish her memory, she leaves her children, Michael P. Danek, Valerie (Rod) Maslauskas, Patricia Ryan, Diane Zanolli, Carol Pacinella, daughter-in-law Lynn (Danek) Taylor, and a close niece Jennifer Hartman. She also leaves seven grandchildren: Michael, Matthew, Kristine, Gina Marie, Stephanie, Jeffrey and Justin, and eight great-grandchildren.
Kay was preceded in death by her son Steven Danek in 2012, her son-in-law Ronald Zanolli in 1987, and her brother Thomas Saidak in 1985.
A mass will be held on Monday, April 7th at 10:00 a.m. at Holy Trinity Church followed by burial in St. Mary’s Cemetery, both in Westfield. There are no calling hours. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Holy Trinity Church at 335 Elm Street, Westfield, MA 01085, or to a charity of one’s choice. www.firtionadams.com
