Elizabeth M. "Irish" (Koczwara) Frates, 86, of St. Petersburg, Florida died Saturday October 21, 2006 at Alden Court Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. She was the wife of the late Clarence F. Frates.
Born in Adams, the daughter of the late Leo and Mary (Scieska) Koczwara, she lived in New Bedford for many years before moving to Florida 25 years ago.
Mrs. Frates was formerly employed as a waitress for various restaurants in the New Bedford area.
In her younger years, she was an avid softball player and swimmer.
Survivors include three children, Louis Spiliopoulos of East Freetown, Linda Demers of Rochester, and Marsha Berard of Lakeville; two stepchildren, Carol Kramer and Thomas Frates, both of New Bedford; a brother, Robert Koczwara of Framingham; four sisters, Jane Martin and Phyllis Burke, both of New Bedford, Dolores Andrade of Florida, and Helen Pawloski of Connecticut; six grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.
She was the companion of the late Eugene "Buddy" Goldrick, and the sister of the late Casimir and Chester Koczwara.
Her Memorial Mass will be celebrated on Saturday November 4, 2006 at 9 AM in St. Lawrence Church, New Bedford. Burial in the Massachusetts National Cemetery in Bourne was private. For online condolence book, please visit www.saundersdwyer.com.