Erika Rekofsky

Erika Rekofsky, 91, a former long-time resident of Norwalk, Connecticut, died peacefully on September 20th at Middlebury Convalescent Home.  She battled Alzheimer’s for many years and later also fought bravely against cancer.  Throughout it all, she kept her dazzling smile and a cheerful song for all to hear as long as she had strength to sing.  She was a model of defiance in the face of debilitating illness.

Erika was born in Kiev in the Ukraine on August 24, 1926, the youngest child of Arved and Clara Guslawski.  She left war torn Europe and came to America where she met the love of her life, her husband Stanley, who predeceased her after over 50 years of loving marriage.  Even as her Alzheimer’s progressed, she vowed to always remember him and she did.

She was a kind and caring mom, grandmother and great grandmother – a spectacular cookie baking, craft-making homemaker who truly made her home a welcoming haven for her family.  Her many hobbies included gardening, crocheting, knitting, sewing, embroidery, canning home grown fruits and veggies and nature appreciation walks throughout the seasons.   She will be deeply missed and always gratefully remembered by her loved ones.

Erika is survived by her son, Stanley Rekofsky and his wife Maryann of Sandy Hook, CT; her daughter Agnes Wieczorek and her husband Edward of Newtown, CT; her grandchildren Michelle Rekofsky, Christopher Rekofsky, Annette Womack and her husband Armando and great granddaughter, Willow Olivia Womack.  She is also survived by several nieces and their families.  A niece and two nephews (each leaving families) have predeceased her, as well as her brother and sister, who are all lovingly remembered.

Heartfelt thanks and appreciation go to Erika’s wonderful home caregiver, Joyce, and to the staff at Middlebury Convalescent Home for the excellent and compassionate care given to Erika over the last 2 ½ years.

There will be a service at Hoyt Cognetta Funeral Home, Norwalk, Connecticut on Saturday, September 23rd at 9:30 a.m. followed by burial at Riverside Cemetery in Norwalk.   The family asks in lieu of flowers that contributions may be made to Alzheimer’s Association or to Middlebury Convalescent Home. Please visit www.norwalkfh.com for more information.