Pauline W. (Gumiela) Salwach

Pauline W. Salwach, of Hilltown, formerly of Lansdale, Oreland, and Philadelphia, passed away Sunday evening, April 13, 2014, at her residence. She was the beloved wife of the late Chester Salwach, who died in 2003. She was 96.

Born in Philadelphia, she was the daughter of the late Anthony and Maryanna (Rugala) Gumiela.

Primarily a homemaker, Mrs. Salwach had been employed in her younger years as a switchboard operator at Bell Telephone, in Philadelphia and Jenkintown. During World War II, she had worked for several years as a gas welder on aircraft manifolds for the Budd Company, Philadelphia.

Pauline attended services at the National Shrine of Our Lady of Czestochowa, Doylestown, where she had volunteered for over 20 years in the gift shop.

She was a member of the Central Association of the Miraculous Medal, of Philadelphia. Pauline was also an active member of the Pennridge Community Center, Silverdale, where she had enjoyed aerobics.

An avid gardener, Pauline also enjoyed reading and cooking, especially baking. She loved music and had frequently attended Philadelphia Orchestra and Opera Company of Philadelphia performances.

Mrs. Salwach is survived by her son, Chester J. Salwach, and his wife, Halina, of Hilltown; and a grandson, Alexander C. Salwach.

In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by a brother, Walter Gumiela, and a sister, Anita Orkwiszewski; the family dog, “Indy,” and parakeet, “Chewbacca.”

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:45 a.m., Tuesday, April 22, in the National Shrine of Our Lady of Czestochowa, 654 Ferry Road, Doylestown, PA 18901. A visitation will be held from 9-10 a.m. on Tuesday at the Betty Meier Steeley Funeral Home, 87 North Main Street, Sellersville, PA 18960.

Interment will follow in Our Lady of Czestochowa Cemetery, Doylestown.

If desired, memorial donations may be made in Mrs. Salwach’s name to The National Shrine of Our Lady of Czestochowa, P.O. Box 2049, Doylestown, PA 18901.