WEBSTER - Wanda Dymon Sitkowski, 95, of Upper Gore Road, a former teacher at Bartlett High School, died Sunday, July 22, at home after a long illness. Her husband of 55 years, former Bartlett High School Principal Anthony J. Sitkowski, died in 1996.
She leaves a sister, Constance Dymon Pelczarski and her husband Charles; several nephews and nieces, including Michael Pelczarski and Edward Sitkowski; grand nephews and grand nieces.
She was born in Webster, a daughter of Walter and Frances (Motyka) Dymon. They soon left Webster and built a home in the village of Three Rivers where Wanda grew up. She graduated from Palmer High School and Bay Path College in Springfield. She obtained her Master’s Degree at Calvin Coolidge College.
Mrs. Sitkowski taught business subjects at the Norwich Free Academy in Norwich, CT. When she married in 1940, she worked for Child Welfare Services – a continuation of her love and interest in young disadvantaged people. She then taught typing at Bartlett High School for many years before her retirement. While there, she and her husband ran and supervised the weekly Ro-Li student dances, co-sponsored by the Webster Rotary Club and the Webster Lions Club. The funds raised from these events provide the Anthony Sitkowski scholarships given at Bartlett graduations each year.
Mrs. Sitkowski was elected to serve on the Board of the Chester C. Corbin Public Library, a position she greatly enjoyed. She was named a member of the Hall of Fame by the Patriot newspaper. She was involved as a leader with the local Girl Scouts for many years. She was an active member of the Samaritans and the Webster Music Club where she performed on her beloved piano.
By far, Mrs. Sitkowski’s greatest love and satisfaction came from serving her church, Saint Joseph Basilica, with her presence and support. Her love and dedication to her church were rewarded by citations and medals – especially the prestigious Pope John Paul II Medal, which was very precious to her. She was a member of the church’s Holy Rosary Sodality, Sacred Heart Society and Saint Anne Society.
The funeral will be held Thursday, July 26, from the Sitkowski & Malboeuf Funeral Home, 340 School St., with a Mass at 10:00 AM in Saint Joseph Basilica, 53 Whitcomb St. Burial will be in Saint Anne’s Cemetery, Three Rivers. Calling hours are from 4:00 to 8:00 Wednesday, July 25, at the funeral home. Donations in her memory may be made to Saint Joseph Basilica, 53 Whitcomb St., Webster, MA 01570.