Valerie Dryja

Valerie (Lopacki) Dryja, formerly of Niagara Falls, NY, passed away Sunday, October 4, 2009 at Northgate Healthcare Facility. She was the daughter of the late John and Victoria (Kajdasz) Lopacki. She was predeceased by her husband, Frank in 1970; a son, Frank in 1985; and a sister, Stella Ohol.Valerie attended local schools. She worked for the former Chisholm Ryder Company in Niagara Falls for over 20 years. She also worked as a waitress with friends catering parties. She loved gardening, cooking, crocheting and traveling. She once toured five countries in Europe on a once-in-a-lifetime trip with family. Valerie belonged to the former Echo Club and Mothers Club of St. Stanislaus Kostka Church. She was a beautiful person who was always there with a kind word and smile for anyone who needed it. She treasured her grandchildren. She will always be remembered for her very caring nature.Valerie is survived by her daughter, Debbie (Henry J.) Ziuko of Niagara Falls; and son, Richard of Littleton, CO. She is also survived by grandchildren, Jessica Ziuko of Grand Island, NY, Dorothy and David Dryja of Littleton, CO, Jeffery, Christopher and Amy Dryja of Rochester, NY; four great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. She was the sister of Jen Jakubowski, Vicki Wegrzyn and John, Steve and Joe Lopacki.There will be no prior visitation. Private funeral services will be held at the convenience of the family. A Memorial Mass will be held on Tuesday, October 13th at 10:00 AM at Divine Mercy Parish, 24th and Niagara Sts., with Rev. Jacek Mazur officiating. Arrangements made through Zajac Funeral Home, Inc. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Divine Mercy Parish or the Alzheimer's Association of WNY, 2805 Wehrle Dr., Suite 6, Williamsville, NY 14221-7380.Visit www.legacy.com/niagara-gazette for online guest register.