MaryKay Washienko

An indomitable spirit, MaryKay died peacefully at home on Saturday, February 12, 2011, after a lengthy struggle with lung disease. She was a lifelong lover of books and literature, and worked in both the De Pere and the Westwood School libraries, sharing her love of learning with all, especially her daughters. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Thomas Washienko; brother Jerome Hendricks; and sister-in-law Lou Hendricks. She is survived by her children: Patricia Washienko and partner Susan Caples (Cambridge, MA), Kathleen Washienko and husband Michael Mathieu, grandchildren Erin and Megan Mathieu (Seattle, WA); her brothers: Roland Hendricks and wife Arlene Hendricks (Green Bay), Kenneth Hendricks (De Pere); Robert Hendricks and wife Mayme Hendricks (De Pere), Ralph Hendricks and wife Judy Hendricks (De Pere); in-laws, and numerous nieces and nephews. The Langans, Aerts and Steinhardts, who were like extended family, shared their love and laughter and celebrated life with her. Dave and Judy Thorpe and Gerry and Bea Seidl enjoyed countless hours of card games and good times. Dear friends who enriched her life with their love and friendship include Margaret (Reoh) Kolodji, Joan (Duffy) Slaby, Mary Kay (Schadrie) Gordon, and Mary (Vieau) Vande Hei. Numerous friends and family gave generously of their time to help MaryKay over the past few years. The family is particularly grateful to nephew and godchild, Scott Hendricks, for his love and tireless assistance to MaryKay and Tom: their beautiful gardens flourished because of him. They would also like to acknowledge and thank Home Instead -- particularly Benna Armstrong, Rosemarie Sayen, Kathy Schoendorf and Shawn Curry -- for the attentive and loving care they provided MaryKay over the last few years: because of them, she continued to live in the home she loved, surrounded by memories of Tom. Thanks also to Unity Hospice for their care during MaryKay's final days: because of them, she was peaceful. Finally, thanks to Life Legacy for fulfilling Mom’s final request to donate her body to science to advance medical research. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages charitable donations to the American Lung Association, the De Pere Library or other charities in MaryKay's memory. Friends may call at the RYAN FUNERAL HOME 305 N. Tenth Street De Pere from 4-6p.m. on Wednesday February 16, 2011. A prayer service led by Fr. Tim Shillcox O.Praem will be held at 5:30pm. Please go to www.ryanfh.com to send online condolences to the family