Cecelia C. (Cader) Gapinski, 87, of Monroeville, formerly of Allegheny Township, PA, passed away peacefully in her sleep at Forbes Hospital on Wednesday, August 21, 2024.

A daughter of the late Joseph Cader and Johanna (Hechugka Backo) Cader Romano, she was born on September 2, 1936, in West Leechburg, PA.

Cecelia had an infectious laugh and love of life that left a lasting impression on everyone she met.  She was always happy and found joy in everything she did.  She was the best Mom ever, loving, generous and extremely proud of her daughters.  Cecelia had a deep faith in God which provided her with great strength throughout her life.  She was a long-time member of Saint Gertrude Roman Catholic Church in Vandergrift and transitioned to Saint Bernadette Catholic Church in Monroeville after moving in with her daughter, Bernie.

Cecelia was the director at the Senior Center in East Vandergrift for over 20 years, touching the lives of many.  She loved to travel and enjoyed many trips throughout the years with her daughter, Bernie – some of her favorite places were Hawaii, Orlando, and Toronto.  She had a “green thumb” and enjoyed having lots of plants to care for.  She loved to bowl, play solitaire, and was an avid reader.  She will be greatly missed by family, friends, and anyone who knew her.

Survivors include her two daughters, Monica Stango (James) and Bernadette Gapinski (Suzanne); and a sister, Mary Wilson.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Frank Gapinski; sister, Pauline Cader; brothers, John, Joe, Martin, Louis Cader; and half-brother, Frank Romano Jr.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 4, 2024, at St. Gertrude Church, 303 Franklin Ave., Vandergrift, with the Rev. Alan N. Polczynski as celebrant.  Private interment will follow in the church cemetery.  Arrangements have been entrusted to the Clawson Funeral & Cremation Center, 170 Main St., Leechburg, 724-842-1051.