Ania Gorka

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Ania Gorka, beloved wife, mother, daughter, sister, and friend, who left us far too soon at the age of 46 on October 19, 2025.

Born in Kraśnik, Poland, on July 30, 1979, to Ewa and Zenon Niedziałek, Ania brought warmth and light into the world from the very beginning. She later made her home in the United States and pursued her education at National Louis University in Chicago. Ania was also a licensed real estate agent in Texas—one of her many little-known side quests.

Above all else, Ania was a devoted wife and mother. She met her high school sweetheart Kamil when she was 17 and would be celebrating their 25th anniversary this year. Her family was the center of her universe, and every part of her life reflected that devotion. She poured her love selflessly into her husband Kamil, her daughter Emily, and her son Alan, always putting their needs before her own with grace, patience, and boundless care.

Ania had a deep and abiding love for nature. Whether it was a walk in the woods, time in her garden, or simply feeling the sun on her face, she found peace and joy in the natural world. This connection to nature shaped many parts of her life, from the way she lived to the way she cared for others.

A passionate advocate for holistic living, Ania dedicated herself to nourishing both body and soul—through vibrant, nutritious meals she lovingly prepared, and through the wisdom she shared with others. Her kitchen was a place of health, warmth, and togetherness.

A lifelong learner, Ania was rarely seen without a book in hand. Her personal library—hundreds of volumes, all thoughtfully annotated—was a reflection of her curious, open, and ever-evolving mind. She sought understanding, not just knowledge, and shared what she learned freely.

In recent years, Ania poured her heart into her website, www.willowandcreek.com, where she compiled her research, recipes, reflections, and guidance on topics including nutrition, health, mindset, and faith. It was a true labor of love, and her family invites everyone to explore it and share in the passion that drove her every day.

A funeral mass will be held for Ania at Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton Monday, October 27th at 10:30am, followed by her burial at Bourland Cemetery.

Ania is survived by her loving husband Kamil, cherished children Emily and Alan, devoted parents Ewa and Zenon, beloved sister Agnes, and brother Chris. Her loss leaves an emptiness in our hearts, but her spirit lives on in every life she touched.

To know Ania was to feel seen, cared for, and deeply loved. Her beauty—inside and out—her strength, and her unwavering kindness will never be forgotten.