AUBURN – Stephanie Elaine (Samocki) Bednarczyk, 88, formerly of 22 Janelle St., Lewiston, passed away at Clover Manor on July 16.

She was born in Lewiston on Aug. 4, 1918, a daughter of Joseph and Sophia (Tupaj) Samocki, both Polish immigrants. She was the wife of the late Joseph C. Bednarczyk to whom she had been married for 60 years. He predeceased her on Jan. 1, 2005.

She attended Lewiston schools and graduated with the Class of 1937 from Lewiston High School. Also, she was a graduate of Burroughs Business College in Boston.

Prior to her marriage she was employed by the former W.S. Libbey Co. of Lewiston. Later, she was employed by the Lewiston school district in the food services program as the head cook of the Martel School.

She was active in many Polish-American clubs in the area. She was vice-president of the White Eaglets of the YWCA, a group of young Polish-American women. She was an active member of the Polish-American Woman’s Club of Lewiston-Auburn, serving as president, secretary, and treasurer for many years. Also, she was the secretary for the PNA (Polish National Alliance) St. Stanislaus Lodge 3182.

In addition to her activities, she created a warm and loving home for her husband, their two sons and later for her father, who joined the household until his death. She delighted in mothering them all. She was an excellent cook of Polish foods, including Polish bread, pierogi and golabki.

Parenthood was a joy for both her and Joe, who shared with relish all of their sons’ youthful pursuits. Memorable family outings included hiking, skiing and vacationing at Old Orchard Beach. She was a devoted wife and helpmate to her husband, Joe. They enjoyed touring the area and taking in local events such as the Fryeburg Fair and hiking the White Mountains of New Hampshire.

In later years they traveled to visit their sons in Texas and Pennsylvania. In celebration of their 50th wedding anniversary they traveled to Poland, a highlight of their life together.

She was a member of St. Patrick’s Church in Lewiston, where she was involved for many years in parish activities. Steffie’s ever present smile, her abundant enthusiasm for life, her love of nature and her willingness to cheerfully help whenever needed will be fondly remembered by all who knew her.

She is survived by a son, Paul, and his wife, Donna (St. Mary), of Allentown, Pa., and their children, Greta, Eva and Andrew; son, David, and his friend, Shari Tuthill, of Lake Jackson, Texas.

She was predeceased by her parents; and a sister, Catherine (Samocki) Volock.