PROSPECT — Irena Pilat, 87, of Prospect, passed away peacefully, while surrounded by the love of her family, at Saint Francis Hospital on Friday, March 17, 2023. She was the devoted wife of Jan Pilat for more than 63 years.
Irena was born Nov. 17, 1935, in Leszczowate, Poland, and was one of four children of the late Joseph and Emilia (Wujkiw) Magac. Irena was vibrant and energetic. She walked a brisk four miles with her husband, played pickleball every day, was an active member of the Prospect Senior Center and a member of the Wii Bowling Team.
She was an avid baker with many signature dishes. Her pierogis, waffles, bean salad, fruit pies and golabki were delicious and legendary. Irena was so giving; “yes” was always her answer and “what can I bring.”
She would house-sit, dog-sit, baby-sit; whatever anyone needed. She was a devoted UConn basketball fan and would energetically cheer for her team.
More than anything, Irena was a woman dedicated to her family. Her selflessness and love of her children and grandchildren was evident in the smile she wore while in their presence or speaking of them. She never missed her grandsons’ football and baseball games, or her granddaughters’ cheerleading competitions.
She was a kind and gentle wife, mother, Babci and friend. Her sudden passing leaves so many in sadness. Assuredly her love and memory will be treasured by all who were blessed to know her.
Left to cherish her love and memory, besides her husband Jan, are her son Edward Pilat and his wife Rachel, of Prospect; and her daughter Donna Guerrera and her husband Robert, of Watertown.
Her cherished grandchildren, Chelsie Guerrera and her fiance Jared, and Rocco Guerrera and his fiancee Nicole, will miss their big-hearted “Babci.” Irena is also survived by her brothers Edward (Lillian) Magac, Simon (Jacqueline) Magac and sister Janine Judek; her very spoiled granddogs Koda and Mojo; and many wonderful friends.
Friends and family were invited to visit with Irena’s family on Tuesday, March 28, 2023, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Prospect Memorial/The Palmerie Family Funeral Home, 122 Waterbury Road, Prospect. A celebration of life service was to be on Tuesday, March 28, 2023, at 7 p.m.
Prospect Memorial/The Palmerie Family Funeral Home is honored to be assisting the Pilat family during this difficult time. Please visit prospectmemorial.com to share a favorite memory, photo or your words of love and comfort.
In lieu of flowers if you so choose, memorial donations may be made to The Volunteer Fire Department of Prospect, 26 New Haven Road, Prospect, CT 06712; or to an animal rescue foundation of your choice.
