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Susan Kurpaska, 59, a lifelong Chicopee resident, was a dedicated second and third-grade teacher at Saint Joan of Arc School. Her love of teaching showed in the hundreds of students she molded over her decades in the classroom and the awards she collected during her tenure, such as the Grinspoon Excellence in Teaching Award for Western Massachusetts, her obituary said.
Her loved ones have created a GoFundMe to cover her funeral costs, and any money raised over that will go to a memorial scholarship fund in her honor.
We are trying to give Sue the goodbye she deserves and also help the family not feel the burden of this unexpected loss financially. Any money not used will be used to create a memorial scholorship fund for students at St. Joan of Arc School in Chicopee in Sue's memory.
Kurpaska leaves behind a husband of 30 years, Larry, a daughter, Katelyn Krajewski, son-in-law Adam, her son Joseph, and a granddaughter she doted over named Adalyn, the GoFundMe said. She did not live long enough to see the birth of her grandson.
So far, the campaign has raised over $5,600 of its $15,000 goal from more than 80 donors in a few days.
It's a testament to her lasting impact and support from the community.
"She will be missed by many," her sister Catherine Grenier posted on Facebook. A person truly loved by all, especially me!
Click here to learn more about the GoFundMe for Susan Kurpaska.
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