Some people come into our lives for a short while and leave a lasting impression. It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Amy Jo Kolbeck, 49, who died peacefully at home on Thursday May 12, 2016 surrounded by her family and friends after a courageous battle with ALS and Multiple Sclerosis.
She was born in New Bedford, the daughter of Lucille (Larocque) Kolbeck and the late Joseph F. Kolbeck, and lived in New Bedford all of her life.
Amy was employed as an administrative assistant for the New Bedford Police Department in the Police Chief's office. She had also previously worked for American Medical Instruments and Compass Bank.
She was a graduate of Bishop Stang High School and Bridgewater State College.
Amy was a former board member of the Diabetes Association Inc. of Fall River. She enjoyed traveling, bicycling, getting together with her friends, and attending her son's sporting events. She was an avid fan of the Boston Celtics, New England Patriots, and other local sports teams.
In addition to her mother, she is survived by her son, Kyle T. Blanchard of New Bedford; her siblings, Lynn Bessette of St. John's, FL, Nadine Folan and Robert Kolbeck, both of Dartmouth, Renee Sousa of New Bedford, and Greg Kolbeck of West Orange, NJ; her boyfriend, Rob Heckman of Rhode Island; and several nieces and nephews.
Her Funeral will be held on Monday at 9 AM from the Saunders-Dwyer Home for Funerals, 495 Park St., New Bedford, followed by her Funeral Mass at Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish at St. James Church at 10 AM. Cremation will follow. Visiting hours will be on Sunday from 4-8 PM. For directions and guestbook, please visit www.saundersdwyer.com.