Kathleen "Kay" Anne (Cates) Lawecki

Kathleen Anne Lawecki, 96 years old, passed away on Friday, January 3, 2025 at her residence in Lakeville.

Kay was born on March 27, 1928 in Bloomington, IN to the late William Newell and Helene Elizabeth (Kerr) Cates. On June 3, 1950, she married the love of her life, Joseph S. Lawecki, who precedes. She is also preceded in death by her brother, Richard Cates.

Left to cherish the memory of Kay are her children, Helene (Jerry) Cooper, Mary Smith, William Lawecki, and Joe Lawecki; grandchildren, Jeremy, Ryan, Amanda (John), Heather (Rick), William, Ben, Melanie (Tim), Tori (Mike); 14 great-grandchildren; and a sister-in-law, Pat Cates. She also is survived by numerous nieces, nephews, and other family members.

Kay was her family’s North Star. She was a champion of her children and was unwavering in her devotion to her family. Among other subjects, Kay taught English at St. Jude’s Catholic School for 24 years. She took grammar very seriously, making sure to elevate those around her to proper English. Kay was also a book enthusiast. She loved to read and even founded a Book Club in Lakeville that she still was attending. She also loved playing bingo, gardening, bird watching, playing Euchre, cooking and traveling. She most recently went on a trip to Sweden with her close friend. Kay was also very generous. She donated faithfully to the homeless center and other charities. Along with her generosity, she was very devout – always making sure to pray her Rosary every night. Kay leaves behind an incredible legacy and will be deeply missed.

Visitation for Kathleen will be Friday, 10:00 am to 11:00 am Friday, January 10, 2025 with a Memorial Service to begin at 11:00 am in St. Joseph Funeral Home, 824 S. Mayflower Rd, South Bend, IN. Burial of her cremated remains will take place at a later date at St. Joseph Cemetery, South Bend.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Broadway Christian Church, 1412 Carroll St, South Bend, IN 46613, RiverBend Cancer Services, 3516 E Jefferson Blvd, South Bend, IN 46615, or donors’ choice.

Online condolences can be made at sjfh.net.

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