Katarzyna (Dmitroca) Szumilak, born on March 22, 1941, in Paary, Poland, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by her loving family on Friday, April 11, 2025. In 1965, Katarzyna immigrated to the United States, where she built a life centered around hard work, love, and family. She proudly became a US Citizen in 1996. She was a dedicated employee of Hartford Hospital, where she worked in the Environmental Services Department for 20 years.
Katarzyna had a passion for cooking and gardening and found great joy in preparing Polish meals and spending time in her garden. Together with her beloved husband, Mieczyslaw, she worked tirelessly to purchase a property in Vermont — a cherished family retreat where she loved hosting gatherings, especially during Labor Day weekend. She also treasured days at the beach, packing up the whole family for long, joyful visits by the shore.
Katarzyna is survived by her devoted husband, Mieczyslaw and her children: Andrzej Szumilak; Jeanie and her husband Kazik Wazny; Irena Snyder and her partner Peter Gallo; Dorothy and her husband Kevin Swanson; and Donna and her husband Claudio Spada. She was a beloved grandmother to Chris Wazny, Margaret Wazny, Thomas Wazny, Natasha (and husband Brian Langan), Samantha Snyder, Holly (and husband Kyle Tierinni), Alexandra (and husband Sebastian Spinoso), Emily Swanson, Victoria Swanson, Caroline Spada, Lilli Spada, and Andrew Spada. She was also a proud great-grandmother to Christopher, Clara, Ryan, Clark, Grayson, Myles, and Josie.
She is predeceased by her cherished grandson, Andrew Spada and her son-in-law, Mark Snyder.
A special thank you to her daughter Jeanie, whose loving care and unwavering dedication over the past 11 years allowed Katarzyna to remain at home, surrounded by love and comfort. The family would like to extend their thanks to Hartford Healthcare at Home Hospice Care, and also to her weekend caregiver Dorota.
Family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance on Wednesday, April 16 at the D'Esopo Funeral Chapel, 277 Folly Brook Blvd., Wethersfield, for visitation from 10-11 a.m. followed by a Chapel Prayer Service at 11 a.m. The burial will take place in Cedar Hill Cemetery, Hartford. Katarzyna will be remembered for her strength, warmth, and unwavering love for her family. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.
