Kathleen Eve Garbowsky

Kathleen Eve (Strank) Garbowsky, 81, of Irwin, passed away peacefully on Thursday, October 17, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. Born on October 15, 1943, in Johnstown, she was the daughter of the late Michael T. and R. Camille (Kearns) Strank. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her infant son, Michael Garbowsky. Known affectionately as “Saint Kathleen” by those who knew her, she was renowned for her unmatched kindness, care, and compassion. Kathy had a special gift for going above and beyond to care for others, always putting the needs of her family, friends, and even strangers before her own. Her loving and gentle spirit touched the lives of many, and no words can ever truly describe what a special person she was to friends, family, and strangers alike. Kathy was a dedicated registered nurse at Forbes Hospital in Monroeville, where her selfless nature was evident in her life’s work. She was a devout member of Immaculate Conception Church in Irwin, having attended Saint John Fisher for many years before joining Immaculate Conception, where she continued to attend early morning Mass. She was a loving mother and grandmother, deeply committed to her family, always sharing her love equally. Kathy cherished spending time with her grandchildren, teaching them how to cook and bake, and reveling in the joyful chaos that came with having many people around her. The more, the merrier was Kathy’s motto, as she thrived in the lively atmosphere of family gatherings. She enjoyed cooking and baking wonderful meals and desserts that brought everyone together. Kathy was deeply in love with her husband, Calvin D. Garbowsky. They shared many cherished memories with family and friends, creating a bond that was evident in their time together. Kathy took great joy in caring for Calvin and loved taking rides with him, relishing those moments of quality time together. Their relationship was a beautiful example of partnership and devotion. Kathy found joy in traveling with friends and visiting casinos, enjoying the thrill of the games. Her love for nature was evident in her admiration for flowers, especially forsythias, daffodils, and lilacs, which she cherished for their vibrant beauty and fragrance. She is survived by her beloved husband, Calvin D. Garbowsky; her children, Coleen (Eric) Schlichte of Renton, WA, Mark (Amy) Garbowsky of Baldwin, Colin Garbowsky (Lya Vue) of Carnegie, and Heather Garbowsky of Irwin; and her cherished grandchildren, Sean, Cian, Kathleen, Kyle, Calina, Cienna, Bailey, Luna, and Mila. Kathy is also survived by her brother Michael F. Strank and sister Patricia A. Pavlikowski, both of Johnstown. Family and friends will be received on Monday from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. at the William Snyder Funeral Home, Inc., 521 Main Street, Irwin, 724-863-1200. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. on Tuesday at Immaculate Conception Church. Interment will be private. The family extends their deepest gratitude to her caregivers, Jackie Long and Carla Cushion Giacchino, for their exceptional care, as well as Heartland Hospice for their compassionate support. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that scratch-off tickets be brought for Mr. Garbowsky’s enjoyment. Online condolences may be shared at www.snyderfuneralservices.com

Kathleen Eve Garbowsky

October 15, 1943 - October 17, 2024