Cecelia M. (Szwed) Kehnast

Cecelia M. Kehnast, age 98, passed away peacefully on Monday, November 16, 2020 with her loving family by her side.

Born in Wilmington, DE, Cecelia was the daughter of the late John and Mary (Kempski) Szwed. Before retiring in 1985, she was a nurse’s aide at Methodist Manor House for 17 years. Before moving to Laurel, DE many years ago, Cecelia was a longtime parishioner of St. Hedwig Catholic Church. She also enjoyed volunteering at Nanticoke Memorial Hospital.

Family was the center of Cecelia’s world. She was a devoted mom and mommom. Cecelia always said that she didn’t have much but her children were her treasures. Christmas was her favorite holiday from decorating her tree to having her whole family together.

For many years, Cecelia and her husband, Albert, ran the concession stand at Trap Pond State Park. Every summer, the whole family would come to visit them and help out as well. Cecelia loved walking along Trap Pond, as well as going to the beach and walking along the boardwalk. Cecelia had a quite the green thumb and could always be found tending to her garden, which was her favorite pastime. She also enjoyed dancing, especially the Polka.

Cecelia was predeceased by her husband, Albert Kehnast; her parents; her brother, Ed Szwed; her sisters, Mary Talarowski, Julie Wisniewski and Ann Wisniewski; and her grandson, Ronald J. Gawinski. She is survived by her son, Ronald S. Gawinski (Joanne); her daughters, Lorraine Whaley (Jack), Anna Marie Gawinski; Alberta Hirt (Randy) and Carol Migliocco (Rosario); her step-son, Paul Kehnast (Joy); her step-daughter, Joanne Jarrell (the late Jack); her 15 grandchildren; her 20 great-grandchildren and her nieces and nephews.

Family and friends may visit from 11 AM to 12 Noon on Tuesday, November 24 at St. Hedwig Church, 408 S. Harrison St., Wilmington, DE 19805, where a Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 12 Noon. Interment will follow at All Saints Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Delaware Hospice, 100 Patriots Way, Milford, DE 19963.

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