Kathleen Mary Grzechowiak

Born curious, quick-witted, and full of heart, Kathleen (Kathy) Grzechowiak lived a life defined by love, style, and a little bit of sass. She passed away surrounded by the kind of stories, laughter, and memories that she spent a lifetime creating.

From an early age, Kathy was unapologetically herself. Her kindergarten teacher once remarked that she had “too many ideas” and “talked to too many people.” Kathy took that as a compliment—and never looked back. She was a natural connector, able to chat with anyone about everything and nothing for hours, always leaving people better than she found them.

As a mother, she was both soft and strong. She raised her children with a fierce independence and a fierce oven. Her timing was impeccable—somehow syncing freshly baked cookies with the school bus schedule like clockwork. Spring break? She’d hop in the car alone and road trip to Florida like it was no big deal. She made motherhood an art form, and the proof was always in the cake.

Speaking of cake… Her baking skills were unmatched. Kathy didn’t just bake, she created. From custom birthday cakes that defied gravity to stunning wedding cakes made with love (and butter), she left a sugary legacy that will likely never be topped. Christmas meant trays of cannolis, perfectly frosted cookies, and more than a few people asking for her secret recipes (which, of course, she didn’t give up easily).

She made every holiday a milestone and somehow managed to not only create the memories but preserve them. Boxes of photos, mementos, and handwritten notes traveled with her wherever she went, each one cataloged with care and purpose.

Kathy had taste, and lots of it. She was the woman who could pull off leopard print, plan a party down to the perfect tablecloth, and befriend a stranger in under five minutes. Her fashion was flawless, her food unforgettable, and her friendships lifelong.

She is survived by her children, Nick (Liz) and Andrea (Aaron), and by her four adored grandchildren: Noah (24), Azalea (21), Henry (15), and Elinor (12). They carry her sparkle, her boldness, and her unmatched ability to make the everyday feel special.

Kathy lived out loud, loved with intention, and never stopped exploring new ideas—or new people to talk to. She will be deeply missed, beautifully remembered, and impossible to forget.