Catherine was born on December 13, 1927, in Queens, New York. She moved out West, making Oakdale her home for the past twenty years. She is survived by her children James Szakmary (Janet) of Lake Ronkonkama, NY, Gary Szakmary (Cathy) of Buffalo, NY, five grandchildren and seven great grandchildren, one brother Patrick Lyons of Auburn, CA, nieces Kathleen Jenkins (Lester), Oakdale, CA, Elizabeth Farkas, Oakdale, CA, and nephew Joseph Farkas (Sirleigh), Dublin CA. She was preceded in death by her husband Bruno Szakmary and siblings Thomas Lyons, William Lyons and Elizabeth A. Farkas.
Catherine was an active member of her community and served as a board member on the Stanislaus Mental Health Board, was a member of the Modesto Garden Club, Red Hat Society, and a volunteer docent and Merry Maid at the McHenry Mansion.
A funeral Mass was held on November 7 at 10 a.m. at St. Patrick’s Cathedral in NY and burial will follow at Calverton National Cemetery. A memorial mass will take place on November 15 at 10 a.m. at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 1225 Olive Ave., Oakdale, CA.
In lieu of flowers Memorial Donations can be made to Community Hospice, 4368 Spyres Way, Modesto, CA 95356.
The Oakdale (Calif.) Leader
Nov. 9, 2016