Pauline Zawisza Gamache

Pauline Zawisza Gamache passed away Thursday, December 29, 2022, at age 97 in Lumberton, MS, where she resided with her daughter, Barbara, for the past four years. She previously resided in Columbia, CT. Pauline was a loving wife, mother, and friend.

Pauline leaves behind her daughters, Barbara Wilson (James) of Lumberton, and Katherine Lemire (Richard) of Groton CT; two grandchildren, Lisa Hedge of Guilford, CT, and Keith Lemire (Heather) of Groton; six great-grandchildren, Jordan Hedge, Lilly Hedge, Sophie Hedge, Jake Hedge, Andrew Lemire, and Emma Lemire; a sister, Frances Robinson of Middletown, CT; neighbors, Sarah and Andy Keleher, who became family; two adopted grandchildren Andrew Keleher, and Maya Keleher of Columbia, CT; and her loving friend, Tammy Ford of Lumberton.

Pauline was born October 20, 1925 in Hebron CT; the daughter of deceased Polish immigrants, Joseph and Marcella Zawisza; and preceded in death by her brothers, Edward, and Stanley; and sisters, Carrie, Mary, Josephine, Charlotte, Genevieve, and Helen.

Pauline met and married the love of her life, Maurice Gamache, residing in Columbia, CT. While Maurice was fighting in WW II, she became a welder supporting the war efforts. With only an eighth grade education, she became a supervisor at the Electromotive Company in Willimantic, CT. She and her husband established and owned the Columbia Package Store in Columbia, Ct along with her brother-in-law, Roger Gamache and his wife Doris. Following the death of her husband, she worked for the Windham Recreation Department in Willimantic, Ct where she directed and led activities for seniors and children. Pauline was awarded The Key to the City of Willimantic and was named Ms. Senior Valentine. She also received a commendation from the state of Connecticut for her volunteer work. Pauline was very active in her grandchildren’s lives, attending their school and sporting activities. She was known as the team “Grandma” for Lisa’s tennis and cheerleading teams. Her passion was watching UCONN women’s basketball.

Pauline put the needs of others before her own and lived her life loving to the fullest. A kind, strong woman filled with love and compassion. Pauline will be missed by many, and our hearts are heavy with her passing. God has called her home; and without a doubt, Maurice is waiting and they will dance in the heavens together.

Funeral services will be hosted by Bacon Funeral Home, 71 Prospect St., Willimantic, CT 06226. (860-423-1234) with burial at St. Joseph Polish Cemetery in Colchester, CT.