Kathleen 'Kay' Pawlak

HURLEY, Wis. - Kathleen "Kay" Pawlak, 93, of Ironwood, Mich., died peacefully Wednesday, April 13, 2016, at Villa Maria Health and Rehabilitation Center in Hurley, with her family by her side.

She was born in Ironwood to her loving parents, Anna and James Boyle, on Dec. 17, 1922. She joins her three siblings in passing - Chester, Juanita, and Warren.

Kathleen Boyle was married to her loving husband and life-long partner, Sylvester Pawlak, on Feb. 28, 1940, in Ironwood. Kay was a devoted wife, supporting her husband's military service while he was commissioned during World War II.

After Syl's service, and Kay as bookkeeper, together they continued to build a successful family-owned business at Boyle's Radiator and Repair Shop in Ironwood. Syl and Kay enjoyed life to the fullest with many wonderful loving and free spirited friends. In addition to raising a family (three daughters), with her hard work ethic and leadership skills, Kay started a career as a Tupperware lady in the 1950s, served as bookkeeper for many years at National Foods, and was president of the PTA at Norrie School. As a progressive thinker, our mom supported and helped those considered underdogs. She taught us to respect and care for all humanity.

Kay and Syl loved life and each other, enjoying many wonderful get-togethers with some wonderful people at their property in that great little town of Gurney. She had a wonderful relationship with her parents, Jim and Anna Boyle, and definitely had the Boyle Irish spunk, as they would say.

She loved her children and extended families - a truly dedicated family member always in support of her family. Our mom made many lady friends along the way, including a very young girl named Eva (DiOrio) Braun, who is our mom's age and is still living. They had a close relationship for at least 80 years. A special thanks to her son-in-law, Evert Nasi (like a true son); Evert came to her aid many times, which was extensive in her later years. There were many wonderful people in our area who were very good to Kay after our dad died. We thank you all.

Kay will be remembered as a hard-working, generous, strong, bright shining light. Her loving and gentle presence will be greatly missed by many, especially by her children, Cindy, Jan (son-in-law Evert), and Sally (son-in-law Dennis); grandchildren, Greg, Lynn, Jami, Jodi, Jeff and Joe; and many great and great-great grandchildren.

In addition to her parents, siblings, and husband Syl, who died March 7, 2005, Kay was predeceased by a granddaughter, Heidi.

Out of respect for her wishes, cremation has taken place.

Kay's family will hold a private graveside service this summer at Riverside Cemetery, Ironwood.

Arrangements have been entrusted to McKevitt-Patrick Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Ironwood. Online condolences may be expressed at mckevittpatrickfuneralhome.com.

We will always carry your memory in our hearts.