Josephine Nellie (Kostka) Bonalewicz

East Providence - Josephine N. (Kostka) Bonalewicz,97, a cherished matriarch and beacon of love, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, September 24, 2025, at the Dawnhill Nursing Home in Bristol. Born on September 13, 1928, in Warren, Rhode Island, Josephine's life was a tapestry woven with devotion to her family, a strong work ethic, and an unwavering faith.

The wife of the late John Bonalewicz, Josephine, was a testament to enduring love and partnership. As the daughter of the late John and Aniela (Prutznal) Kostka, she grew up understanding the value of family bonds. She carried this understanding into her own family as a loving mother to John Bonalewicz of Swansea, Frederick Bonalewicz of Riverside, Cynthia O'Blenis of Warren, and the late Catherine Pappas. She was a doting grandmother to Miles and Dan Bonalewicz, Bethany Donnelly, Ashley, Cassie, and Corey O'Blenis, Michael Jenkinson and Melissa Herald. She was the grandmother of the late Heather Bonalewicz and the late Lisa Pappas. She was a proud great-grandmother of eight.

Josephine was the sister of Cecelia Bonalewicz of Pawtucket and was preceded in death by her siblings Stanley, Edward, William, John, Milton, and Michael Kostka, and Stella Waskiewicz. Her extended family of nieces and nephews, to whom she was a treasured aunt, will remember her fondly for her loving nature and selfless acts of kindness.

Throughout her career, Josephine demonstrated a commendable work ethic. For over 25 years, she skillfully worked as a Presser for the Emco Dress Factory. Following this, she contributed over a decade of service to the Barrington Pet Supply and later enriched the lives of many through her work with the Barrington School Department Lunch Program for over seven years.

A devout parishioner of the former St. Casimir Church in Warren, Josephine's faith was a cornerstone of her life. Her interests included knitting and crocheting, crafts through which she expressed her creativity and love, creating warm and beautiful pieces for her family and friends. Josephine's greatest joy was found in the laughter and stories shared during the precious moments spent with her family.

Josephine will be remembered as the embodiment of love, thoughtfulness, and selflessness. Her legacy is one of compassion and unwavering support, a guiding light for all who were blessed to know her. Her gentle spirit and generous heart have left an indelible mark on the lives of many, and she will be dearly missed.

As we say farewell to Josephine, we celebrate a life beautifully lived and a journey completed with grace. May her memory continue to inspire kindness and love in all of us.

Her funeral service will be held on Monday, September 29, 2025, at 10:00am in the REBELLO FUNERAL HOME, 901 Broadway, East Providence, burial will follow in Gate of Heaven Cemetery, 550 Wampanoag Trail, East Providence.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend. Calling hours are on Sunday from 6:00pm -8:00pm in the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN, 38105.

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