Katherine (Katie) was of the “Rosie the Riveter” Era. She worked for Park Wolverine during WWII, and her job was to operate a punch press that stamped out 50 caliber bullets. She met James Hendricks at that time while he served the Navy. They were married July 6, 1944 until his death in 1980. Her five brothers and sisters in law, Tony, (Ann) Joseph, Frank, (Jennie) William, (Martha Erna) and Vince, (Rose) also preceded her in death.
She was the loving mother of Diane (Ted) Puchyr, and son, James (Andrea) Hendricks, proud grandmother of Marnie (Craig) Davisson, and Tj Puchyr and companion, Kim Ward, Great grandmother of Hunter, Owen, Audrey, and Connor. Lynn (Mark) Bitonti, Kristen (Bob) Ernst, six Great grandchildren, and five great, great grandchildren. She is survived by a very dear sister in law, Tedi Lafata, and many nieces and nephews and friends. Katie’s longtime friend, Alice Trupiano, passed in September, as well as a very dear friend, Jean Boos from Canada, July of 2017.
Katie was a lifetime believer of giving and doing for others. She always remembered to send cards for special occasions or “Just Because.” She loved to cook, especially a favorite, eggplant parmesan, up until recently before her Passing. She loved sharing her special desserts with others. She frequently baked her well known “Funeral cake” for loved one’s family. Katie loved working in her yard with her many rosebushes and various flowers until she could no longer due to balance issues. Her last years were mainly spent watching the many beautiful birds that gathered at the feeders in her yard, and her love for reading.
She would like to thank Michigan Community VNC, especially, Jena Owsiany, visiting Hospice nurse. Jena was always so very kind and attentive to our mother. Also, Dr. D’addario and PA, Kimberly Cannon, along with her dear neighbor Jan Lupo, and the staff of Eastside Internal Medicine, and the Comfort Care Caregivers. A special Thank you to Reverend William Lawrence, her nephew, for officiating the services.
Celebration of Katherine’s life will be at Kaul Funeral Home, 28433 Jefferson Ave. St. Clair Shores, MI, on Friday November 29, 2019, beginning at 10:00 am until time of service at 11:30 am.
Private Burial at Cadillac Memorial, Contributions may be made to ASPCA or a charity of your choice.
