Obituary of Reta Kurek

RETA MAI KUREK (nee Lappan)

May 10, 1933 - February 25, 2023

Passed away peacefully at home with her loving family by her side at the age of 89. Beloved wife of Bernard Kurek. Cherished mother of Kim Barnes, Sherry Barnes (late Bob), Jason Kurek and Jarrod Kurek. Mémé to Alayna and Olivia Kurek. Daughter of the late William and Edna (nee Berthiaume) Lappan.

Sister to late Helen Dufault (Paul), late Alvin "Buster" (Mildred), late Norman "Babe" (Cora "Teeny"), late Laurent "Peter" (Rose), late Clarence, late Eleanore Desjardins (Charlie), late Maurice (Barbara), late Clifford "Pepper" (Lucy), Geraldine Rock (late Del), late Doris Jacques (Omer), late Germaine Miller (Wilfred), late Don (Denise), late William "Bill" (Lil), late Blanche McDonnell (Michael), and Noella Hayes (late Jack). Daughter-in-law of late Stanley and Rose Kurek. Sister-in-law of late Richard Kurek, late Edward Kurek, James Kurek (Karen), Mary-Theresa Rose (Ken), late Juliana Kurek, Stanley Kurek (Nancy), Philip Kurek (Joyce) and late Paul Kurek (Lorri).

The second youngest in a large french-speaking family Reta loved her native language and heritage. Profoundly effected by the loss of her parents at a young age she took solace in her faith and contemplated a life of devotion while still in her teens, spending a year in a London convent before returning to the outside world where she could remain close to her siblings, marry and have the children that became the joy of her life. Reta was infused with a restless creative spirit and exhibited her talents and innovation when she became a sought-after local hair-dresser and award-winner at a Toronto convention for stylists. She went on to teach aesthetics and manage local salons in Windsor and the downtown Detroit Hudson's. Later in life she turned her hand to a number of home renovations where she realized amazing results guided by her vision of what-could-be and a tireless effort. She was also a relentless "crafter" willing to challenge herself with new projects that would test her skills and develop unknown abilities. She remained fundamentally optimistic in her creativity and disposition, for always in the face of hardship she held that circumstance - and the self - could be improved if one believed and did the work. Known for her kindness, generosity and humour she will be greatly missed by all who knew her.

We loved you and always will. Our Reta - Mom - Sister - Mémé - Auntie - Cousin - Friend.

A private family Mass has taken place at St. Anne's Parish followed by cremation. If desired, in memory of Reta, donations can be made to the Alzheimer Society of Canada.