Patricia “Trish” Szlembarski

Patricia “Trish” Szlembarski (nee O’Connor), age 61 of Wayne, a beloved sister, friend, and cherished member of her community, passed away peacefully on Thursday, May 29, 2025.

Born in Brooklyn, New York, Trish moved with her family to Wayne when she was just ten years old—a community that would hold a special place in her heart throughout her life. She graduated from Wayne Valley High School and earned her business degree from Katherine Gibbs School, laying the foundation for a diverse and successful professional career.

Trish began her career working at her father’s business, Center Sheet Metal in the Bronx, before moving on to Singer-Kearfott in Totowa. She later worked as a paralegal at several area law firms and concluded her career at Englewood Allergy with Dr. From, where she was deeply appreciated for her dedication and warmth.

While working at Singer-Kearfott in the 1980s, Trish met Robert “Bob” Szlembarski during a company charity event at The Barnyard in Totowa. Their connection deepened through shared activities like shooting pool and playing darts, and their romance blossomed.  Less than a year after meeting, they exchanged vows on August 1, 1987 at St. Michael’s Church followed by a beautiful reception at The Manor. They honeymooned in the Pocono’s and eventually settled into their home in Packanack Lake, close to family and friends. Sadly, Bob passed away in 2001 after just fourteen years of marriage and Trish has missed him dearly ever since.

In 2011, Trish moved to Florida to lovingly care for her ailing father during his final years — a testament to her loving, generous and loyal spirit. She cherished those years, especially all the one-on-one time she was able to enjoy with her father. She also enjoyed hosting all the visitors her father was blessed have stay at his home during that time. Following his passing, she returned to Wayne in 2013 and purchased her “dream home” on Packanack Lake. There, living close to her family and friends, and surrounded by the beauty of the lake, Trish built her own little haven of warmth and comfort.

Trish’s home was always filled with the scent of fresh-baked goodies — though, ironically, she never ate the treats she so lovingly made. Baking was just one of the many ways she shared love with those around her. She was also an avid music lover with a special fondness for Elvis Presley, Olivia Newton-John, and Neil Diamond. With her deepest roots in Brooklyn and the Bronx, she remained a loyal fan of the New York Yankees and the New York Giants (naming her cat “Jeter”), and she never missed a game!

Trish also loved watching movies and enjoyed many memorable trips to Atlantic City with her dear friends and former coworkers, where laughter, stories, and slot machines filled the days.

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She enjoyed every family gathering, never happier than when she was surrounded by those she loved most. Her bright smile and infectious giggle could light up any room, and her generosity, loyalty, and deep devotion will be remembered by all who had the privilege to know and love her.  She took her role as an aunt very seriously and was truly and lovingly devoted to all her nieces and nephews.

Since 2020, Trish faced serious health challenges with incredible strength and grace. Even through this hardship, her love for life, her family, and her faith never wavered. She leaves behind a legacy of compassion, laughter, and love — and she will be dearly missed by all who knew her.

Trish is survived by two sisters: Maureen Cretella (Joey) of Wayne, and Irene Yalicki (Eddie) of Manahawkin; nieces and nephews: Annie (Greg), Amanda, Amy (Sean), Joey, John (John), James, Kelly (Ryan), Jimmy O’Connor III, Alexa and Rachel; cousins: Ron, Tom, Bill, and Rosie; aunt and uncle: Nancy and Jimmy Mike, and most recently her companion dog Alani, who brought her so much joy.

Trish was predeceased by her husband Bob in 2001; by her parents: James (2013) and Mary (2010) O’Connor; her sister Colleen Youngman (2015), her brother James, Jr. (2015), her brother-in-law Steveo (2015), her Uncle Ronnie (2024), and her cousins Greg (2001) and Dorothy (2020).

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In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in Trish’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, reflecting her generous spirit and commitment to helping others. Trish’s quiet compassion and selfless nature touched the lives of many, and supporting this cause would honor her legacy.  Donations can be made online at www.stjude.org