Claire Elizabeth Siefert Kolakowski

A resident of Indian River Colony Club since 2012, she was active in several social and patriotic organizations such as Army Wives, Piano Bar and Singles and Solos which she co-chaired.

Claire grew up in Bayonne, New Jersey, and worked as an administrative secretary, then married Lawrence Joseph Kolakowski in 1960. Together they had two children - one boy (Mark) and one girl (Sharon) - and that was enough and a handful. Claire was a devoted wife and mother who followed her husband’s career, took on the exciting challenge of relocating to rural Tennessee and then north Alabama before moving back to New Jersey in the mid 1980s to be closer to family.

Claire and Larry were blessed to have celebrated 50 beautiful years of marriage. After her husband’s passing in 2010, Claire transitioned from a New Jersey widow to a retired Floridian.

Claire was a beautiful, strong woman with an incredible desire for life. She loved reading, shopping, dining out, crafting , word puzzles and going on family trips. Each of her round number milestone birthdays was an excuse for a family destination vacation celebration, usually somewhere warm and tropical. As much as she loved travel, she loved being home the most.

Claire loved her friends and family fiercely, a four time cancer survivor who finally laid down in her final battle. She will be missed by many. She is survived by her son Mark Lawrence Kolakowski, and daughter Sharon Dickinson. She is also survived by her sister Susan Moubray, and brother Robert Siefert.

The memorial service will be held 7/27 at Indian River Colony Club in Melbourne FL. The service will start at 11:30am at Colony Hall, followed by light repast at the At Ease Club.

All who loved her and her family are invited to attend.

In lieu of flowers, feel free to send donations to the American Cancer Society.

Cards may be sent to:

Kolakowski residence

1624 Pioneer Dr.

Melbourne FL 32940