Maria (Koziel) Kurnat

Maria Kurnat, a cherished, beloved and devoted mother passed away peacefully on February 7, 2026, at the age of 78. Born on October 5, 1947 in Debno, Poland, Maria's courageous journey led her to the United States in 1969, seeking new opportunities and starting a new chapter of her life.  

In January 1970, Maria married her dear late husband, Jozef Kurnat and established deep roots in Clifton.  Their marriage was blessed with two loving daughters, Anna Czasiuk, married to Marcin, and Jozefa Sudol, married to Andrzej, who they raised enriched with Polish traditions, values and heritage.  Maria's greatest pride was her family.  She was a beloved Babcia to three beautiful granddaughters, Karolina, Olivia and Aleksa Sudol, who were the lights of her life, bringing immense happiness and joy to her world.  Maria leaves behind her family in Poland, her sister Anna Warmuz, her predeceased parents, Jan and Karolina Koziel and her late brother, Wladyslaw Koziel.  Maria also leaves behind her two beloved sister-in-law’s Emilia Brunciak and Katarzyna Blazon and her many loving nieces and nephews in the USA and in Poland. 
 

Professionally, Maria worked at various clothing textile firms in the Passaic area as a skilled seamstress for many years, contributing her precision and care to every stitch.  Later in life, she transitioned into a role that truly reflected her heart, serving as a caregiver to children, where her patience and nurturing spirit touched many young lives. 

Maria's life was marked by her unwavering faith and dedication to her family. A faithful parishioner of SS. Cyril & Methodius R.C. Church in Clifton, she was known for her devout love and worship for God, Blessed Mary, Pope John Paul II and the Church.  Her spiritual devotion was a cornerstone of her life, providing strength and comfort to her and those around her.

Maria's passion for gardening was evident to all who knew her. Her green thumb brought forth a garden that was not only a sanctuary for her, but also a source of beauty and nourishment for her family and neighbors. Her dedication to her garden was recognized with an award from Mayor Gloria Kolodziej and the City of Clifton, a proud moment that celebrated her commitment to cultivating life in all its forms.

Inside Maria’s home, the kitchen was her domain.  She was a wonderful cook of Polish cuisine and her family will forever cherish the memory of her authentic meals, especially her delicious stuffed cabbage, red barszcz and kwasnica, embracing cultural remembrance and family bonding through traditional Polish meals. 

Those who knew Maria would describe her as loving, selfless and kind. She will be remembered for her quiet strength, her warmth, generous heart and the beauty she planted in the world, both in her garden and in the lives of those who loved her. 

Maria Kurnat's life was a tapestry woven with love, faith and service. As we bid farewell to this remarkable woman, we celebrate the profound impact she had on our lives. Her memory will be cherished and honored by all who were touched by her gentle spirit and compassionate heart.

Visitation will be held Friday, February 13, 2026 from 4:00 to 8:00 pm at Bizub-Quinlan Funeral Home, 1313 Van Houten Avenue, Clifton. Funeral services will be held Saturday at 9:15 am from the funeral home followed by a 10:00 am Mass at SS. Cyril & Methodius R.C. Church, 225 Ackerman Avenue, Clifton. Interment to follow at St. Mary Cemetery, Saddle Brook. Please visit www.bizubquinlan.com to leave condolences to the family on the Tribute Wall section of the online obituary.

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