Florence R. Gurka

We are saddened to announce the passing of our beloved mother, Florence R. Allard Gurka, 85, of East Sandwich, MA and formerly of Mapleville and Slatersville. She passed away peacefully Tuesday afternoon, May 2, 2017, where she made her home with her granddaughter Tara Mintz and her family.She was the wife of the late William F. Gurka, Sr.Florence was born in Woonsocket, daughter of the late Ernest and Florence (Peloquin) Allard. For many years she and her husband owned and operated the Oasis Tavern in Smithfield.She leaves her children William F. Gurka, Jr. of North Smithfield, Leslie A. Varone and her husband Edward of Mapleville, Stephen T. Gurka of North Smithfield, and Edward C. Gurka and his partner Scott J. Shekerow of Middletown. Florence was the sister of Lorraine Gingell of Harrisville, and Ernest Allard of Slatersville. She was Mem to eight grandchildren William Merchant and his wife Jennifer, Kelly Robson and her husband Kyle, Tara Mintz and her husband Asa, Alyssa Gurka, Katherine Gurka, John Gurka and his wife Lindsay, Madison Gurka and her fiance Keith Jeffrey and Jennifer Gurka. Florence was Big Mem to ten great grandchildren Jacob Merchant, Tyler Merchant, Gunner Merchant, Sloan Merchant, Amelia Mintz, Gabriel Mintz, Kyle Robson, Sadie Gurka, Malachi O'Neil and Aria O'NeilShe was the sister of the late Audrey Wright.A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated, Monday, May 8, 2017 at 11:00AM in St. John the Evangelist Church, 63 Church Street, Slatersville, RI. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.Calling hours are respectfully omitted.In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to:Hope Hospice, 765 Attucks Lane, Hyannis, MA 02601Please be mindful, the Railroad Street Bridge in Slatersville is closed. Cemetery Details St. John the Evangelist Parish Cemetery 63 Church Street Slatersville, RI, 02876 Mass MAY 8. 11:00 AM St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church 63 Church Street Slatersville, RI, US, 02876