Jean Szermer

May 19, 1916 - May 1, 2020

Jean Szermer, age 104, passed away peacefully of age on May 1. 2020. Jean was born on May 19, 1916 in Carteret, New Jersey to John Plewak and Katherine Pukas Plewak. She was raised in Bronx, New York. While attending Roosevelt High School she met her future husband, George A. Szermer. The high school sweethearts married on May 30, 1936. George passed away in 1986. George and Jean started their life together on City Island, Bronx, NY. They moved to Rockland County in 1952 and built the family home in Monsey, New York where they raised their 3 children. They joined Sacred Heart Parish in Suffern, New York in 1952 and she remained a member until her passing. Jean served the parish as a secretary for almost 50 years, starting under Monsignor James Kelly. Jean was also instrumental in establishing the Ladies Guild at the parish. While at Sacred Heart she developed a close friendship with Father Patrick Bologon from Nigeria. They would often talk about life in his village in Nigeria. When Jean discovered that they needed computer's for the children at the local school she set her mind to raising funds to buy the computers. She was able to personally deliver the computers when she visited Father's village in Nigeria. Jean was a world traveler who saw the US, Europe, Asia and Africa. She shared her love of travel with her grandchildren when they saw parts of the world together! Jean was active in the Montebello Club where she enjoyed local trips and chair yoga classes. She also loved her "dinner groups". She and her many friends would either cook a delicious meal or meet at one ofthe local restaurants. Jean will be sorely missed and Is survived by her son, George Szermer and her daughter, Maggie Szermer Harris; her grandchildren Kathy, Robert, Judy, Tom, Steve, Bill, Meaghan, Mike and Bubba; and her great-grandchildren Ryan (Seungjae)Tim, Margot, Honey June, Sam, Maggie Jean, Nicholas and Scarlett; her nephew Jerry Plewak and finally Jean's personal angel, Bozena Gusciora. Jean was preceded in death by her loving husband George and her loving daughter Pat. All who knew her will not forget her tenacity, wit, grace and her "nuggets" of advice. She loved and cared for each one of the people who she shared her journey with. Her family is sad that we cannot celebrate her life with all her many family and friends but as soon as it is safe we will all celebrate together, Mom always taught us to take care of those who were not as blessed as we have been. we think she would be pleased if you wish to make a donation to the Sacred Heart St. Vincent DePaul Society. This group provides support to local families in need.