WEST HARWICH/ AUBURN ___Aldona R. Zitkus, 89, passed peacefully on Sunday, January 17, 2021 at St. Vincent’s Hospital. She was born in Lithuania, daughter of Victor and Petronele (Endriukaitis) Vasys. She was raised and educated in Lithuania and Germany before coming with her family to this country in 1949. Aldona also studied Business Management at Clark University. She worked in management for Corporate Air/Air Worcester in both Worcester, MA and Hartford, CT offices.
She later chose to use her artistic abilities to become a well- known makeup artist for Estee Lauder, Inc. Aldona volunteered her beautician talents to cancer patients at St. Vincent Hospital, which gave them a feeling of beauty and confidence to help them deal with their illness.
Aldona was predeceased by her husband of 41 years, Leon (Lefty) P. Zitkus; 3 brothers, Raymond, Jesse, and Benedict Vasys, and a great grandchild, Lorelei Marenghi. She will be deeply missed by her family: daughters, Joan Shea and her partner Herb Duggan of Auburn, MA and Lynda Hetel, of Myrtle Beach, SC; 3 grandchildren, Angela Marenghi, Jennifer Zannoni and Erik Hetel; 5 great grandchildren, Madelyn, Isla, Nathan, Colby and Gavin.
Aldona was affectionately known as “Ma” to everyone that knew her. She was a goddess of the sun, and emitted rays of positivity and warmth. Her love of travel brought her to experience the wonders of the world, from Alaska to an African safari.
Aldona will be remembered for her love of animals, big and small, her infamous potato pancakes, crunchy tacos, chicken wings and a good margarita!
We can hear her say...”No one promises you today…never mind tomorrow, so Live it Up!! “`
The family would like to thank the staff at St. Vincent’s Hospital – 23 South for their outstanding care and compassion that they gave to her during her final days.
Aldona’s family will celebrate her life with private services. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Worcester Animal Rescue League – www.worcesterarl.org . To share a message or memory with the family, please visit www.worcesterfuneral.com .
DIRSA - MORIN FUNERAL HOME, 298 Grafton St., Worcester is directing the arrangements.