Dec 13, 2024
Roberta (Birdie) Walczak
Roberta (Birdie) Walczak was born October 18, 1932 , in Gowanda to the late Glen and Ada Farner. Birdie passed away peacefully in her sleep December 6, 2024, at the Chautauqua Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Dunkirk, NY.
She is survived by her son William Cambria of Fredonia and grandson Patrick Hodge (Alexandria Gould) of Amherst, NY.
Birdie graduated from Gowanda High School in 1953, and moved to Fredonia in September 1953. She worked for Kasbohm Poultry for 10 years. In later years she took classes at Every Woman through Chautauqua Opportunities and subsequently worked as a personal care aide. She enjoyed helping others until she retired in 1994.
Birdie attended Fredonia Assembly of God for 34 years and then became active in Harvest Chapel Free Methodist Church in Fredonia. She was an active member in several area organizations including Aglow, Cassadaga Lake Side No 381, Simple Singles group, United Senior Citizens club, Rainbow Bills, and CIOA. She was also a member of the Dom Polski and Kosciuszko Polish Home where she was active in playing cards with friends. Birdie loved playing pinochle and was in tournaments through the Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) at the Share and Care Center in Fredonia and was on their board for 9 years. She also ran the Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday pinochle groups for many years. Birdie was grateful for the Beaver Club’s generosity to host the card group when they had to move in 2012. Birdie also participated in the Dunkirk Senior Center pinochle tournaments.
In 1991, Birdie became a member of the SUNY Fredonia Usher Corp of Rockefeller Art Center. She ushered at the 1891 Fredonia Opera House from December 1994 until her health declined. She ushered at 501 events. In May 1995, the Fredonia Kiwanis group honored Birdie for her commitment to serving the area. In September 2000, she was presented with the Chautauqua County Good Neighbor award. Sponsored by Karen and Bob Davis, Birdie experienced a Koinonia weekend.
Besides cards, Birdie loved playing games with her grandson and with friends and on her computer. She wrote cards to shut ins and friends. Birdie always welcomed new friendships, leaving a lasting memory on those she met. Donations in her memory can be made to Harvest Chapel Free Methodist Church, 39 Matteson Street, Fredonia, NY 14063. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
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