Cynthia Anne Kolarik, age 61, – better known as Cindy or Lou Belle or Cindy Lou – passed away peacefully Sept. 4, 2021.
Cindy was born in Erie, Pa. in 1960. She lived much of her early years at her family home in Girard, Pa. She was preceded in death by her father, Louis F. Kolarik and Margaret "Marge" Kolarik. After moving to Louisville, Cyndi attended Saint Mary Center, an adult day center. She played numerous sports through Kentucky Special Olympics, including softball, bowling, basketball and bocce. She attended numerous national square dance conventions. Her talents and interests were many: a gifted organist, master potter and gifted artist. But the true love was her little dog, King Louis, who she walked for miles through the neighborhood. Many pairs of tennis shoes were replaced over the years.
In addition to Alzheimer's Disease, Cindy often suffered from severe bouts of selective hearing, with the most notable exceptions being the words cake or dessert, even mentioned quietly in another room. Her most recent heart throb was country singer Blake Shelton. It was a secret love affair, though, – he didn't even know.
Cindy is survived by her brothers, Kim D. Kolarik (Michelle Dunaway), Dennis Kolarik (Vicki) and Gary Kolarik (Barbara); and sister, Janice Porritt. She adored her nieces, Courtney (Colton), Kerri (Carlos), and Sydney. And she loved playing with her great-nieces, Natalie, Ella, and Aubree. Her in-laws include Jim and Sara McDowell, and Jennifer and Meindert Exoo. Cindy would certainly include humankind in her extended family. She only met a stranger once.
Importantly, her legacy will continue through her participation in The Down syndrome and Aging Research study at the Sanders-Brown Center on Aging at the University of Kentucky.
A Celebration of Life Gathering will be held on Sunday, September 12, 2021 from 1:00 pm until 4:00 pm at 14405 Ashford Court Louisville, KY 40245.
To honor Cindy, please consider gifts in her name to the research study or Special Olympics.
The Down Syndrome and Aging Research
Sanders-Brown Center on Aging
University of Kentucky
800 South Limestone St.
Lexington, KY 40536-0230
Special Olympics Kentucky
105 Lakeview Ct,
Frankfort, KY 40601
To leave a special message for the family, please use the "Share Memories" button.