Obituary of Rena M. Tkacz

Rena M Tkacz, 69, of Holyoke, passed away peacefully after a courageous 14 year battle with cancer. She was a happy warrior and loved by all. Daughter of the late Gerald and Therese (LeFleur) Hamel, she was born in Chicopee on October 14, 1950. After graduating, Rena went on to work as an inspector for ITT Electronics. Rena loved to crochet and made many afghans for cancer charities over the years. She also enjoyed spending time playing computer games and loved going on outings to the casinos. Rena will be missed by all who knew her, especially by her loving husband and best friend of 48 years, Martin Tkacz; her son Eric Tkacz and wife Heather of Cape Cod; her two sisters Jackie O'Malley and husband Harold of Holyoke, and Marcy Barrows and husband John of Springfield; her brother Paul Hamel and wife Joann of Merced, CA; her three best friends, Carol, CIndy, Mary; her cats, Lacie and Lola; as well as many extended family members and friends. In addition to her parents, she is predeceased by her 3 siblings, Raymond and Roger Hamel, and Jeanne Cellini.  The family would like to thank Dr. Bishop and the Infusion Nurses at the Sister Caritas Cancer Center of Mercy Hospital for all of their love and care.  A burial for Rena will be private and at the convenience of the family.  In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Sister Caritas Cancer Center, 271 Carew St. Springfield, MA 01104.