Catherine Kolano Motkowski

In her 99th year of life, died on June 18, in Salisbury. She was born on September 13, 1916 to Sophie Wytrwal Kolano and Andrew Kolano in Braddock, PA. Catherine married the love of her life, Michael Motkowski, in 1940 and was widowed in 1947. She was the proud and loving mother to Mercedes (Bill) Rogers of Salisbury and Michael (Jeanne) Motkowski of Williamson, NY and fun loving grandmother to six grandchildren and eleven great-grandchildren. Catherine was a devout Catholic and lived her faith in her daily life. She was a true example of loving and giving of herself. In her early years, Catherine was active in her parish, Sacred Heart in Braddock, PA and also in fraternal organizations that upheld her Polish heritage. She was the president of the Rosary Society for many years and shared her faith by teaching CCD. Catherine took an active role in the planning of the new Sacred Heart Church in Braddock Hills, PA. Catherine retired from Westinghouse in East Pittsburgh, PA after 33 years of service in 1980 in order to care for her mother. Her positive attitude was an example for all. She had a passion for life and her presence made life easier for everyone around her. Catherine loved her siblings and their children and grandchildren. She was the oldest of ten children and took that role seriously. Family was very important to her. She is survived by five siblings: Joseph Kolano of La Palma, CA, Elizabeth Lawrence of North Versailles, PA, Stephanie Fichtner of North Huntingdon, PA Dolores Sweatlock of Paramus, NJ, and Andrew Kolano of Laguna Niguel, CA. In addition to her parents, she was preceded on her journey to heaven by her siblings, Mary Kolano, Chester Kolano, Jean Puskarich, and Lucille Huber. Friends are welcome to attend a Memorial Mass at Sacred Heart Church in Salisbury on Friday, July 17th at 11 a.m. Because education was important to Catherine, memorial donations may be made to Sacred Heart Catholic School, 385 Lumen Christi Lane, Salisbury, NC 28147. www.laniganfuneralhome.com