Cecilia M. Dukish

October 2, 1923 - April 5, 2008

Cecilia Dukish, 84, Beaver Dam, formerly of Juneau, Wisconsin, was embraced in the loving arms of our merciful Lord and Savior, in the twilight of her life on Saturday, April 5th, 2008, surrounded by her family. Cecilia was born to Isadore and Viktoria (Godleski) Krzyzewski on October 2, 1923, in Hurley, Wisconsin, where she also attended school. She was the twelfth of 13 children. Cecilia was a wife, mother, and homemaker, and later in life, she became a Certified Nurse”s Aide and was employed at Lakeview Nursing Home, Beaver Dam, for many years, and having left that position, she went on to work in the field of home health care. Mom chose to heed the call to work with people, as she was ideally suited to the task of caring for others, always looking to better the lives of those she touched.

Suffering a debilitating stroke in June 1997, our mother had to give up the work she so enjoyed, striving to and succeeding in making a difference in this world. Once resigning herself to her physical limitations, she refused to give into depression, Mom indulged all the more in four of her favorite pastimes: letter-writing, reading, working puzzles and playing Bingo. Her wit was keen and her sense of humor always apparent, at just the right times. She could lift anybody”s spirits and, on countless occasions, did just that. Our mother was a great listener and very compassionate toward people, especially those who needed it most. She will be remembered for her sensitivity to others, in spite of being challenged by many of life”s adversities, herself. We owe our gratitude to our mother, for instilling in her children a sense of spirituality because of her unwavering faith, which has sustained us, throughout the years, during our own trials. Being the mother of 11 children, (to include two sets of twins, born a year apart), she divided her time and attention equally to all of us. She was a very devoted mother and loyal friend.

Cecilia was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, George, in 1980, her son, William, in 1996, and siblings, Henry, Helen, Mille, Eddie, Anton, Albert, Johnny, Johanna, Irene, Isadore, and Alex. Survivors include her sister, Alice Sonnentag, Milwaukee; her children, Victoria, Juneau; Georgetta (Fred) Piotrowski, Chicago, Illinois; Kathy Wallace, Reno, Nevada; George Jr. (Shirley), Fond du Lac; Jeanette, Big Spring, Texas; Annette Winter, Juneau; Willard, Beaver Dam; Gerry (Lois), Waupun; Charlene Morris, Beaver Dam, and Joanne, of San Diego, California. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews, 9 grandchildren, 4 great-grandchildren, 2 sisters-in-law, as well as dear friends she”s made over the years.

Although, we just can”t accept the fact that one of our precious loved ones is actually absent from our daily lives, we can, nevertheless, be thankful that they are in a far better place, where there is no sickness, sorrow, pain, or mournful goodbyes. Death need not be viewed as a personal tragedy, but rather, a blessed release from all turmoil and human struggle. Special thanks to Dr. Kuehnl for being able to treat Mom through his expertise. Heartfelt thanks to all the staff at Hillside Manor for giving our mother a greater quality of life, in their endeavor to meet her every need and do so with cheerfulness and professionalism. Because of the nursing staff”s astute observations, they helped to make her passing a kinder and gentler one. Their kindness will not be forgotten. At the request of the family, there will be no visitation. Cremation will take place.

The family suggests that memorials be made in Cecilia Dukish”s name to Hillside Manor, 803 South University Avenue, Beaver Dam, Wisconsin 53916.

The Murray Funeral Home in Beaver Dam is serving the family. Online condolences may be made at our website at www.MurrayFH.com.

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On behalf of my entire family, I wish to convey my heartfelt thanks for the generous outpouring of sympathy shown us, during this time of great loss. Each of us has a path to follow and having seen the many twists and turns Mom was compelled to take, throughout her life, several of which presented personal hardship, God allowed her to come to her journey''s end, now to finally realize Eternal peace and rest from all her struggles. There, she will not only be able to look on the faces of her beloved family members, who have gone on before her, but also, upon the radiant face of our Lord, Jesus Christ. May we ever be cognizant of the fact that God''s plans for His children will never lead us where of the grace and love of God cannot sustain us. Again, your kind sentiments shall never be forgotten. Sincerely, Annette Winter

Oh, Annette, I am so sorry to hear of your mother''s passing. I know that you were a big part of her life and this will leave you sad. We both know from experience that life is precious and all too short. It will take time to come to grips with her passing, but know that your good memories will come to the forefront and it will ease your heart. They say that "Time heals all", but that is not true. It is "Time heals nothing, it is what you do with that time that will heal your sorrow." Know that you are in my thoughts and prayers. I know that there is another level in our lives that we go to when we have completed our mission on earth. It sounds like your mother was a wonderful, caring and compassionate person, and I can see that you carry those traits. Take care, my friend.

Georgetta, what a beautiful obituary about your mother. I pray that God will grant you peace and comfort during this difficult time.

Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

Prayers and sincere sympathy go out to you and your family of Cecilia. She will be greatly missed.

Georgetta, what a beautiful obituary about your mother. I pray that God will grant you peace and comfort during this difficult time.

Prayers and sincere sympathy go out to you and your family of Cecilia. She will be greatly missed.

Aunt Georgetta- We are so sorry for your loss. Please know that you are in our thoughts, and although we didn''t have the honor of knowing your mother, we are blessed to have you in our lives. After reading the beautiful obituary, we can see the many similarities you and your mother shared, including your compassion and sensitivity, and we are again sorry you lost someone who passed on such loving characteristics to you. Jen, Dan, Tyler & Payton Atkins

Annette, Charlene and family - May the wonderful memories you have of your mother give you comfort during your time of sorrow.

She''s going to be missed at the Manor very much. I''m sure I speak for many when I say that I''ve lost the best part of my work day. She''s one person I could never forget. You''re in my thoughts and prayers...

Annette, Charlene and family - May the wonderful memories you have of your mother give you comfort during your time of sorrow.

I am going to miss her dearly and you have my deepest condolences.

Charlene, Sarah & Annette - I have experienced the emotions of having a parent and grandparent pass. My condolences to all of you. May she be forever at peace.

My sincere condolence''s at your loss. There once was a man who had passed away and placed in his casket with him was a golden fork. When the family was asked why is there a golden fork in the casket, the family answered. Well when he was alive and would eat his meal, and when finished with the main course he would wipe off his fork and keep it. When asked why he did that his response was that the best is yet to come, waiting for dessert. So in his passing the fork was a symbol of the dessert of life which awaits us in death which is Heaven and being with our father where all pain and sorrow is gone. Truly the best is yet to come. God bless you all in your time of sorrow.

I am going to miss her dearly and you have my deepest condolences.

Charlene, Sarah & Annette - I have experienced the emotions of having a parent and grandparent pass. My condolences to all of you. May she be forever at peace.

Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.