Rykowski, Winnifred

Winnifred “Winnie” Rykowski, 85, of Vernon, formerly of Waterbury, died unexpectedly on Saturday, August 21, 2021, at home. She was born in Waterbury, CT on June 6, 1936, daughter to the late William and Theresa (Penoncello) Swalwell. She grew up in Oakville, CT and was a graduate of Watertown High School. She spent most of her life in Oakville, near family and friends. Winnie worked in the textile industry for many years with Fleischer Finishing Inc., in Waterbury. She was an avid NY Yankees fan and enthusiast. She enjoyed watching games, keeping up with the team, stats, and following the standings. Winnie will be remembered as a strong, steadfast, and independent woman. She leaves her son, Brian Rykowski of Manchester and his fiancé Tish Coakley; her aunt, Helen Penoncello who she made her home with for over 30 years; her grandchildren, Jennifer Macpherson, and her husband Robert, of Coventry, and Bryan Rykowski, and his wife Hannah of Glastonbury; her nephew, Dr. David Pizzuto and his wife Rosi of Cheshire; and her niece, Patricia Wachter and her husband Frank of Myrtle Beach, SC. She was predeceased by her infant daughter, Susan Rykowski. A memorial service will be held on Thursday, August 26, 2021, 10 a.m., at the Ladd Turkington & Carmon Funeral Home, 551 Talcottville Rd., (Rt. 83) Vernon. A private burial will take place at Calvary Cemetery in Waterbury. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Please visit www.carmonfuneralhome.com