Evelyn Cairone Dombrowski

Evelyn Cairone Dombrowski (nee Kugler) of Philadelphia, PA on October 29, 2020 at the age of 96.

Beloved wife of the late Nicholas J. Cairone and Chester S. Dombrowski. Devoted Mother of Tina & Lynne. Dear Mother-In-Law of Scott & Mark. Cherished MomMom of Nick, Chris Josh & Andrew.

Evelyn was the youngest of 6 children born to John & Susannah (Dzubach). Her father emigrated from Weisskirchen, Austro-Hungary and her Mother from Lubica, Austro-Hungary. She is pre-deceased in death by her brothers, John (Lou), Carl (Eleanor), and her sisters, Elsie (George), Margaret (Bill), and Anna (Pat).

Evelyn’s father was president of the local German social club and she recalls many an evening as a child sleeping on the pool table at the club. This is where she learned to dance and enjoy the music. Evelyn graduated from Frankford High School, Class of 1942.



Evelyn married Nick on October 20, 1945. After 10 years of marriage, they had two daughters just a year apart. Evelyn loved her family and the close relationships she shared with her sisters and brothers. There were weekly card games, sewing circles and countless family get togethers. She also enjoyed her weekly bowling league.

Tragically, Nick passed away on May 6, 1970 and Evelyn was left with a business to run and two teenage daughters. With lots of love and support from her family she managed. During this time she went back to work at the IRS as a tax examiner for 5 years. She also returned to her roots and took up ballroom dancing again which she continued for the next 45 years. She was a proud member of Parents without Partners as well as the Associated Polish Home. She danced a few nights each week at Pasa Doble, Stardust and other local ballrooms.

Through her dancing, she met her second husband, Chester S. Dombrowski. They were married on October 29, 1994. Unfortunately, Chester fell ill the following year and died January 5, 1996.

Evelyn volunteered at Frankford Torresdale Hospital and worked in the gift shop. She did this for many years before the hospital replaced volunteers with paid workers.

Her family was important to her and she gained much strength from them. As the years progressed, this youngest of six took on the role of Family Matriarch and hosted and attended many “Kugler Cousins” lunches. These gatherings turned out to be special occasions for everyone where many happy memories were made. Additionally, there were other traditions such as Fasnacht (Donut) Day traditionally the day before Ash Wednesday. Evelyn was up at the crack of dawn to make these delicious donuts and distribute them to family. Holidays were always festive and homemade ravioli and butter cookies made Christmas a special tradition.

All in all Evelyn was a strong, determined, independent woman. She remained in her home until her 96th year taking on tasks like a vegetable garden, snow blowing and any repairs that were necessary. Additionally she had her hair done every Friday morning for many, many years and nothing could deter her from this including inclement weather. Evelyn’s last few months were a struggle, but she departed this life having lived 96 long years on her own terms with many joys and blessings.

Relatives and friends are invited to attend Evelyn’s Memorial Thursday Morning November 5, 2020 from 9:15-10:15 AM at St. Matthew Church (Upper) 3000 Cottman Ave. Philadelphia, PA 19149 followed by her Funeral Mass at 10:30 AM.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Evelyn’s name to the Associated Polish Home, 9150 Academy Rd., Philadelphia, PA 19114.


John F. Fluehr & Sons, Inc.

Funeral Home Serving Families Since 1898

3301 Cottman Avenue
Philadelphia PA 19149

215-624-5150
215-624-3302

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