Kathleen T. Stanek

Kathleen T. Stanek

8/13/42 - 12/26/25

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved "Nana"/Mom, who left this world after a courageous battle with cancer. She was the definition of strength, resilience, and unwavering love.

Nana/Mom was bold in spirit and fierce in determination. She worked six days a week at Spalding’s, where she was employed for more than 30 years. No matter the weight of life on her shoulders, she was someone who showed up, pushed forward, and never gave up because that's who she was. Life did not hand her an easy path, yet she met every challenge head-on with grit and grace.

She raised five children on her own, pouring her entire heart into being both a mother and protector. She taught them the value of hard work, independence, and standing strong even when the world felt heavy. Her sacrifices were countless, her love unconditional, and her impact immeasurable.

She is now reunited with the love of her life, who predeceased her. "Pa"/Fred was a proud veteran, and their bond was one of deep devotion and enduring love. Nana and Pa shared a love that no force could break for 50+ years. Though life separated them too soon, Nana/Mom's heart never left his side, and we take comfort in knowing they are together again.

To those who knew her, Kathleen was a force, strong-willed, honest and deeply caring. To her family, she was a foundation.

Kathleen was extremely generous, always putting anyone and everyone before herself. She regularly donated to Veterans, Wounded Warrior, Shriners, the Food Pantry, panhandlers, gifted two brand new bicycles to Toys for Tots every year, and generously left a goodie bag for her mailman daily.

Though cancer took her body, it never touched her spirit. That spirit remains alive in every life she shaped and every heart she touched. She will be missed beyond words, and remembered forever for her strength, her courage, and her unbreakable love.

She was predeceased by her siblings, Peter, Jack, and Wayne Bohnak, Joan Cavette and Sandy Gwinner.

Kathleen is survived by her loving children, Susan A. Boyd and her partner James Choate, William P. Chacona and his wife, Maria, Sharon M. Bordeau, all of Chicopee. Karen T. Gosciminski and her husband, Michael D. Gosciminski of Granby. John C. Mongeau and his wife, Lucy of Ludlow. Kathleen leaves behind many dear friends, including Nina Sasser, Dory Giguere, nine cherished grandchildren, thirteen great-grandchildren, three great-great grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Family and friends will gather on Friday, January 9, 2026, for calling hours from 9:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. at Brunelle Funeral Home, 811 Chicopee Street, Chicopee, followed by a service at 10:30 a.m. in the funeral home. Her committal prayers and burial will be at 2:00 p.m. at the Veterans Cemetery in Agawam.

To know her, was to love her. Rest peacefully, Nana/Mom. Your walk may have ended, but your legacy will never fade. Love you more.