Catherine Celia (Hicks) Szylkonis, 92, of Medway died peacefully on Sunday, November 12, 2017 at the Medway Country Manor.
She was born on June 22, 1925 in Newton, and was known throughout her life as Kay. She along with her six sisters and two brothers lived frugally with their parents Herbert and Mary.
Kay loved all sports and excelled in field hockey in high school. In recent years, she enjoyed rooting for the Boston Bruins and New England Patriots.
On July 12, 1945, Kay married her sweetheart Pete and they were blessed with four children; Joe Jr., Carol Ann, George and Tom. Kay’s joys in life were her family and travelling. She travelled extensively with Pete, both domestically and abroad. Her favorite spots included Hawaii, Australia, New Zealand and the Caribbean.
Kay was also a talented seamstress who made her own beautiful outfits and dresses.
In May, 1979, their family expanded when their son George had a daughter named Dena. Kay and Pete opened their home to the new dad and baby six months later, and spoiling their grandbaby quickly became their new favorite hobby. Kay was a strict but doting and loving grandmother. She taught Dena how to sew and how to bake sweet treats like whoopee pies and chocolate chip cookies.
Kay and Pete wanted their granddaughter to know the joy of travelling and took her everywhere they went. They especially loved their annual trip to Disney World with Dena, a place that would grow to be a second home to them over the years.
Kaye was an awesome mom, wife and grandma and was generous and loyal. Her loss is deeply felt by her family and all who knew her. She was a firecracker who always unapologetically spoke her mind.
Kay is survived by her husband Pete, hers sons; Joe Jr., George and Tom, and her granddaughter Dena. She joins her parents, brothers, sisters, daughter Carol Ann, best friend Margie, and beloved family dog Dusty in the Kingdom of Heaven. May she rest in peace.
Her funeral Mass was held privately and her funeral services were under the care of the Ginley Crowley Funeral Home, 3 Barber Street, Medway (www.ginleyfuneralhomes.com).