Mary Catherine Niemczyk

Checks left this physical world August 27, 2021 on her own terms after a courageous journey where she never gave cancer permission in her life. We only ever referred to her journey as “bad cells.”

Mary Catherine Niemczyk was born in Granite City, IL on May 6, 1960 to Joseph and Ilene “Nonnie” Niemczyk. From this day forward the St. Louis Cardinals and the St. Louis Blues would have their most loyal fan. In fact, if you ever truly asked Checks what she really wanted to be when she grew up, her eyes would twinkle as she replied with “a professional athlete.” In fact, Checks continued to work towards that goal through Crossfit where she excelled. Those who knew Checks knows her intense drive and dedication to reach her goals and continued growth.

Checks spent her formative years growing up in St. Louis, and was very proud of her roots. She attended St. Jerome Elementary and Rosary High School where she made many lifelong friends. She then attended Benedictine College in Atchison, KS where Checks played Softball for the Lady Ravens. You might say that these four years were some of her best. At least listening to her tell the many stories and pranks where she would literally laugh herself into tears, reliving those moments. Checks had a way of making you feel like you were right there.

After Graduating with her degree in Accounting, Checks headed West to AZ where she had spent time visiting her Aunt and Cousin. This new adventure allowed Checks to really spread wings and make her mark. She taught Jr. High and quickly discovered her love for teaching. Coaching HS softball became yet another passion. However, Aviation was always a desire that needed to be explored. And so Checks did just that, becoming a private pilot as well as obtaining her MBA from Embry Riddle Aeronautical University and in 2002 earned her PhD in Learning and Instructional Technology from Arizona State University. She spent the past 19 years doing what she LOVED, teaching Aviation Management and mentoring thousands of students who referred to her as Dr. N. She always looked forward to graduation and the pride her students had as they received their diploma. Many of these students would continue to stay in touch with her sharing their success as they made their way into their careers.

Checks made friends with everyone she came in contact with, capturing people with her infectious laugh, her welcoming smile and her genuine care and compassion for others. These attributes along with her incredible blue eyes and sense of adventure had my heart from the beginning. Checks never wavered in her love for others and I was truly the luckiest one of them all. She loved me fiercely. Although Checks had taught and coached in the past, she stepped into the role of “Bonus Mom” of two young girls. Through T-Ball, Volleyball, Girl Scouts, Swimming and countless hours of playing American Girl Dolls, she loved the girls. She continuously pointed out to each of them their academic strengths, building their confidence to invest in their education and their future. Checks was an intricate part of our family, and she loved to share how she enjoyed playing golf with her father-in-law, and that she has known and coached her sister-in-law for over thirty years.

As memories continue to flow, I know that I am not alone when I say I will Miss her every day for the rest of my life. To all of her family, friends, students, and colleagues, we thank you for your continued love and support. Checks truly appreciated everyone in her circle and always looked forward to gatherings where she would be surrounded by the people she truly admired.

Celebration of Life, September 11, 2021 from 4-7 pm. At Fit Society 2920 S Alma School Road Chandler, AZ 85286

Rest in Peace Checks! We ALL know you deserve it! #checksstrong #becauseshelovesher