Obituary of Mary E. Ciolek

South Hadley—Mary Elizabeth (Sears) Ciolek, 60, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by her loving family on Saturday, April 3, 2021. Daughter of the late James and Theresa (Leary) Sears, she was born in Holyoke on February 25, 1961.

    Mary attended South Hadley public schools where she met her high school sweetheart and husband of 38 years, Michael Ciolek, Jr. She went on to earn her bachelor’s degree from Mount Holyoke College and worked for Traveler’s Insurance in Hartford, CT for several years.

     Once Mary welcomed her children Michael III and Melissa, she dedicated her time to being a devoted mother and homemaker. Her greatest joy was being a wife and mother. Mary was actively involved in St. Theresa’s Parish in South Hadley and treasured her time spent with her weekly prayer group.

     She loved to travel with her family, and they took many trips and created countless memories together. The family would like to thank all of Mary’s caretakers who were such an important part of their lives for the last few years. Their kindness and compassion will never be forgotten.

     Mary was predeceased by her parents, James and Theresa (Leary) Sears, and her brother Dr. John Sears. Mary will be missed by all who loved and knew her, including her dedicated husband, Michael Ciolek, Jr; her children, Michael Ciolek III and Melissa Ciolek both of South Hadley; her sister, Anne Sears of Asbury Park, NJ; many nieces, nephews, and extended family members and friends. Services for Mary will be private and at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Huntington’s Disease Society of America by visiting https://hdsa.org/get-involved/get-involved/