Christine J. Kolek

Christine J. Kolek, 90, of Utica, passed away on Friday, September 12, 2025, at Wynn Hospital. She was born on August 4, 1935, in Utica, and was the daughter of Lawrence and Domicela (Zabinski) Zizio. On May 2, 1959, Christine married the love of her life, Frederick P. Kolek, at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, a blessed union of 20 years prior to his passing on September 28, 1979. Over the years, she worked at General Electric and Faxton Hospital. She considered her most important role as devoted caretaker of her family and home, becoming both Mother and Father for her children after the passing of her husband. Christine had the most loving and kindest soul, who was able to build the most amazing foundation for our family and we couldn't be more grateful. Although our hearts are heavy, we are so grateful for every hug, every story, and every memory she gave us. Surviving are her beloved five children, Cindy Forte (Anthony), Brian Kolek (Barbara), Kevin Kolek (Eileen), David Kolek (Ellen) and Steven Kolek (Cheryl); thirteen cherished grandchildren, Steven Forte (Kim), Bryan Forte (Kim) Michael Forte (Jess), Daniel Forte (Hannah), Brittany Kolek (Marquis), Brandon Kolek (Adrianna), Jeffrey Kolek, Matthew Kolek (Ashley), Rorie Kolek, Zach Kolek, Rylee Kolek (Ryan), Haleigh Gotham (Brandon), Lauren Newnan (Ryan); three great-grandchildren, Marcel, Hudson and Hadley Jo and many nieces and nephews. Christine was predeceased by her parents; brothers and sisters, Frank Zizio, Wilma Mlynarski, Jean Baron, and Casimer Zizio; brother-in-law, Edwin Kolek and mother-in-law and father-in-law, Mary and Stanley Kolek; her dear niece, Celia Zizio, who held a special place in Christine's heart. Relatives and friends are invited and may call on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at McGrath, Myslinski, Kowalczyk & Nunn Funeral Directors, 470 French Rd., Utica. Funeral services will follow visitation at 11 a.m. at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Utica, where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated. Interment will follow in Holy Trinity Cemetery, Yorkville. In lieu of flowers, remembrances in Christine's name may be made to Anita's Stevens Swan Humane Society at www.anitas-sshs.org. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home. Messages of sympathy at www.mmknfd.com