Mary Jo Gutowski

Mary Jo Gutowski, 83, of Kersey, passed away unexpectedly Wednesday, July 29, 2026 at UPMC Presbyterian Hospital.

She was born March 1, 1943, in St. Marys, daughter of the late Cletus Joseph and Eileen Bauer Rigard. She was a lifelong resident of the area and a graduate of Central Catholic High School, Class of 1961.

On October 27, 1962, in the St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Mary Jo married her high school sweetheart, the late David B. Gutowski, who preceded her in death on November 23, 2022. While raising their children, Mary Jo worked as a Tupperware consultant, building friendships with many families. She later enjoyed a 25-year career as a banquet chef at the Bavarian Inn. After retirement, her spirit of service continued as a volunteer in the cafeterias at the St. Mary’s Elementary and St. Boniface Schools. She also faithfully served as a member of the St. Boniface Bereavement Committee and the St. Boniface Rosary Society, living out her deep faith and dedication to her parish community.

She is survived by two daughters: Sharon Barbazzeni of St. Marys and Pamela Smith (Tim) of St. Marys; two sons: Dean Gutowski of St. Marys and David Gutowski (Margie) of St. Marys; seven grandchildren: Adam Barbazzeni (Jessica), Joel Barbazzeni (Katie), Andrew Smith (Genna), Marcella Muriceak (EJ), Alex Smith, Allison Atkeson (Trevor), and Luke Gutowski (Liv); seven great-grandchildren: Angelo, Mayzee, and Vaughn Barbazzeni, Theodora and Emelia Smith, Joey Muriceak, and a baby on the way in October; two sisters: Bernadette Estus of St. Marys and Jane Lenze of Aurora, CO; a brother, Richard Rigard (Karen) of Cranberry Township, PA; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Family was always her first priority. She found her greatest happiness surrounded by her children, especially her beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who brought endless smiles to her face. She treasured every moment spent with them, creating memories filled with love, laughter, and the warmth that only she could provide.

Mary Jo had a remarkable gift for making everyone feel welcome. She had an incredible ability to connect with people. By the end of every conversation, she not only knew someone’s name but often their life story as well. Her genuine interest in others and her kind, compassionate spirit left a lasting impression on everyone she met.

Her kitchen was the heart of the home. An exceptional baker, she delighted family and friends with homemade treats that became treasured traditions. No one left her home hungry. She believed there was always room at her table for one more, and she welcomed everyone with open arms.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in the St. Boniface Church, 355 Main Street, Kersey, PA 15846 on Monday, August 3, 2026 at 11:00AM with Rev. Christopher Beran, Pastor Celebrating. Burial will be in the St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery.

Visitation will be held in the Lynch-Radkowski Funeral Home, 169 Center Street, St. Marys, PA 15857 on Sunday, August 2, 2026 from 4:00PM until 7:00PM.

Memorial donations, if desired, may be made to St. Boniface Church, 355 Main Street, Kersey, PA 15846 or to the Fox Township Ambulance Association, 432 Main Street, Kersey, PA 15846 .