Theresa Kuzmich

Theresa Mary Kuzmich received her wings, from the Lord on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025. As only Mom would have it, she joined Pope Francis on her journey to Heaven after her favorite holiday. Born in South Troy, NY to Mary and Maurice Miecznikowski on February 1, 1930,

Theresa was the oldest of 3 sisters, who were raised by their mother and doted on by their many Polish Aunts. Her Aunt Cecile & Aunt Melanie in particular, made a positive impact on Theresa’s life, simply by taking her under their wings. Her Aunts’ strong, independent influence taught her many life lessons at a young age that defined her entire life. The benefits of hard work, determination, a kind heart and a good education can lead to an abundance of adventures and satisfaction of a job well done.
Theresa worked at Montgomery Wards, nights & weekends during her last two years of High School, to help support her family. She graduated in 1948 from Catholic Central High School in Troy, NY. She went on to work in the Stenographic Department and Billing Department for 2 years at Socony-Vacuum Oil Co. in Albany, NY. Little did she know, during that time she would meet a dashing man, 7 years her senior, on the dance floor at the Cohoes Polish Center.

Theresa soon married Harry Kuzmich and moved north with him, where they raised 5 children on the family dairy farm in Easton, NY.
Preserving her identity, as a strong-willed woman, Theresa transitioned to the rural farm life and adapted her skillset to meet the new adventures and challenges of raising a family in the heart of farm country. She found herself wearing many hats, on and off the farm, but her love of cooking for her large family would define her loving spirit for years to come. Theresa’s enjoyment of people, gatherings, conversation and meals led her to manage the kitchen at Willard Mountain Ski Area, from 1960-1976, seasonal waitressing at Spa Brau Haus, Easton Mountain, and then again managed a ski mountain kitchen, at Sugarbush Ski Area, and the snack bar at the Greenwich Elks.

In addition to all the many roles she played out of the farmhouse, Theresa was a 4-H leader to 6 little neighborhood girls, whom she taught cooking and domestic skills. Her compassionate nature touched many people along her travels, and no doubt left a sincere lasting impression on everyone she met. Moms annual-between the holidays Christmas Party was always a highlight for the entire family.
Theresa spent her last few years of her working career as a Real Estate Agent, and then eventually Manager of Murphys Golf Range in Saratoga Springs, NY. She was happiest when she was among others, catering to their needs, meeting new people, and overall sharing her light. She took pride in the accomplishments of all her children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, and was happy to share with others their joy.
Mom was a lifelong devout Catholic so to know her was to love her. She was a polished gem with a beautiful and brilliant spirit. She endured much in her 95 years of life and was tested often by her faith in God. She wore the nickname “Mother Theresa” like a badge of courage and righteousness. Her strong faith held her steady when she most needed guidance.

Laid to rest before Theresa was her sister Mary Ann Cook, daughter, Beverly Swinburne, son, Gregory Kuzmich, and infant great-granddaughter, Laurel Kuzmich. She is survived by her sister Dorothy Raymond, her three remaining children, Paul (Yvonne) Kuzmich, David (Dianne) Kuzmich and Barbara (Thomas) Stewart, her 8 grandchildren, Brian (Candace) Kuzmich, Kevin Kuzmich, Aaron (Jessica) Kuzmich, Justin (Sidney) Kuzmich, Christa (Sean) Petrie, Kayla (Jeff) Kuzmich, Nicole (David) Priddle, and Collin (Danielle) Stewart, as well as her 16 great-grandchildren Jesse & Brooke Kuzmich, Isabella, Julianna & Christopher Kuzmich, William & Catherine Kuzmich, Kayleigh, Jaxson, Bryson & Avery Kuzmich, Carys & Rowan Petrie, Camryn & Landon Priddle, and Jade & soon to be welcomed Baby Boy Stewart. Along with her many cousins, nieces and nephews.

Special Thanks to her fellow Golden Girls, DeeDee Schroeder & predeceased Lola Kirk, whom she missed dearly this last year, and all their fun “golden” adventures.
To Mom’s private in-home aides, Sue Asbell, Marlene Perry and Jen Masso just to name a few of the many. All her friendly Home Instead aides, over the years, Washington Center – Argyle aides, her beyond thoughtful friend, neighbor and Saint Joseph’s liaison Pat Kirk, and to the woman who came as a light when most needed and compassionately made our mom, her mom, Lisa Merrills. We are forever grateful.

Mom always sprinkled in her proud Polish heritage and vocabulary on a daily basis. Her favorite was, “Dziekuje” (jen-koo-ye / Thank you) to everyone that walked beside her, held her hand and was there, when your warmth was most needed.

Theresa’s Mass of a Christian Burial will be held at 1 pm on Friday, April 25, 2025, at St. Joseph's Church in Greenwich. Family and friends may call from 12 to 1 pm prior to her mass at church. Burial will follow her mass in St. Joseph's Cemetery, Greenwich.

In Theresa's memory, please pass on, a good deed and positive thoughts to others. Monetary donations may be made to the Easton-Greenwich Rescue Squad, PO Box 84, Greenwich, NY, 12834, in appreciation for their ever-ready support and service to our community.

Online condolences and messages to the family may be made at www.flynnbrosinc.com.