Meri Kathryn "Kay" Radecki

Meri Kathryn “Kay” Radecki passed away peacefully in her sleep on January 10, 2025, at the age of 81. Born on January 21, 1943, to Mary and George Ruwe in Cincinnati, Ohio, Kay grew up in the vibrant neighborhoods of Kennedy Heights and Kenwood. She attended Ursuline Academy, where she began cultivating her lifelong commitment to faith and community.

Following high school, Kay joined the Sisters of Charity, dedicating two formative years to deepening her spiritual connection with God—a bond that sustained her throughout her life. She continued her education at Mount St. Joseph in Cincinnati and Good Samaritan Hospital in Dayton, earning her Registered Nursing degree. It was during her studies that she met her loving husband, Kenneth Paul Radecki. Their 55-year marriage was built on devotion, love, and shared faith.

Kay worked as a registered nurse in local hospitals and served as a private duty nurse for Charles Sawyer, a former U.S. Ambassador to Belgium and Secretary of Commerce. Later, she chose to devote her time to raising her three beloved children, Kelly, Kathleen, and Kevin, while also pursuing her entrepreneurial spirit through Mary Kay Cosmetics and Vera’s Hallmark.

A devout Catholic, Kay’s faith was central to her life. She attended Mass regularly and took on roles such as Eucharistic Minister, Cantor, and Lector. Her faith community was a source of lifelong friendships, fostered through parish activities, Rosary groups, and Martha/Mary Bible Study. Kay also shared her love of music, especially the piano, which she began playing as a young girl and continued to enjoy throughout her life. Her music often brought joy to family, friends, and residents in assisted living communities.

Kay was preceded in death by her parents, Mary Godfrey Ruwe and George Bernard Ruwe. She is survived by her devoted husband, Ken; her brothers Jerry Ruwe (Kathy), Bill Ruwe (Marsha), and Jack Ruwe; her children Kelly Manning (Robert), Kathleen “Sevika” Radecki (Tony Wilson), and Kevin Radecki (Mary); and her cherished grandchildren: Nick Witzeman (Malory), Henry Manning, Charlie “Bea” Manning, Will Manning, Olivia Radecki, Ben Radecki, Ryan Radecki, and Connor Radecki.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate Kay’s life at a visitation on Monday, January 20, from 4:00 to 6:00 PM at Paul R. Young Funeral Home in Mt. Healthy. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, January 21, at 11:00 AM at Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church, followed by interment at Gate of Heaven Cemetery.

If you wish to make a monetary donation in lieu of flowers the family is requesting donations to Eternal Word Television Network. 

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