Kathleen Ganczarski

STERLING - Kathleen (Peterson) Ganczarski, 69, valiantly fought a long and courageous battle with cancer. She passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, August 31, 2023, with her loving family by her side. Kathy was born in the picturesque town of Meadville, Pennsylvania, to proud parents Russell L. and Martha M. (Murdoch) Peterson. On December 6, 1953, Kathy entered this world, and her legacy would go on to touch the lives of many.

Kathy's life was a remarkable journey filled with love, passion, and unwavering dedication to the things that brought her joy. Kathy was raised in Carlton, Pennsylvania, where she graduated from Cochranton High School in 1971, embarking on a path that would lead her to serve her country as a Navy Veteran. Kathy's commitment to her nation was unwavering, and her service was marked by honor and duty.

One of Kathy's greatest passions in life was her love for the great outdoors. An avid hunter, she reveled in the thrill of the chase and the beauty of nature. Her heart soared with each successful hunt, and she shared these adventures with family and friends, creating cherished memories that will be forever treasured.

Kathy was a selfless soul who believed in giving back to her community. She wholeheartedly embraced the spirit of volunteering and was an active member of various organizations, including Leominster H.O.G., Sterling CERT, Sterling Senior Center, and the Eight Point Sportsman Club. Her dedication to these groups enriched the lives of those she served alongside and the people she touched.

Kathy's life was not without its share of challenges, but she faced them with a tenacity and resilience that inspired all who knew her. She was practical, self-sufficient, and always ready to take on whatever life threw her way. Her strength was a source of inspiration to her loved ones.

In 2000, Kathy experienced the loss of her beloved husband, Donald (Gonzo), a pain that she carried with her throughout the remainder of her life. Their love was a testament to the deep bond they shared.

Kathy's legacy will live on in the hearts of her family and friends, as well as in the memories she created during her lifetime. She leaves behind a rich tapestry of experiences, a testament to a life well-lived.

As we say our goodbyes, let us remember Kathy as the determined, passionate, and loving woman she was. Her spirit will continue to inspire us all to embrace life's challenges with courage and to find joy in the simple beauty of the world around us.

She is survived by her two daughters, Ann Vincent and her husband, Matthew and Lee Laflamme all of Sterling; four brothers, Wayne "Pete," and Jeffrey Peterson of PA, Ronald Peterson of FL and Douglas Peterson of TX; two sisters, Sandy Rice and Debra Peterson both of PA; Sister-in-Law Donna Ganczarski of Clinton; three cherished grandchildren, James, Kendall and Brayden; nephews and nieces.

Relatives and friends are invited to gather and visit with Kathy's family from 3 to 6 pm on Sunday, September 10 at Miles - Sterling Funeral & Tribute Center, 100 Worcester Rd., Sterling. Kathy's life will be honored and remembered at a Celebration of Life Service at 10 am on Monday, September 11, at the funeral home. Burial will follow with military honors at Hillside Cemetery in Sterling. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Eight Point Sportsman's Club, 147 Beaman Rd., Sterling, MA 01564. To share a memory or offer a condolence, please visit the "Tribute Wall" on this page.`