Cathy Szynskie Memorial Fund

Frankie Szynskie is organizing this fundraiser.

Donation protected

UPDATE 4/21/25

We have reached our goal and the memorial bench is in place at Hitchcock! Thank you all for your support. The bench is located directly outside of the Loess Hills Lodge in the park.

Rather than holding a formal memorial hike, we have reserved the Heartwood Pavilion at Hitchcock Park on Saturday, May 17th, during regular park hours. This will be an opportunity to see the bench and explore the park if you wish to do so. There will be no need to pay the $5 vehicle entry fee; however, the park suggests that visitors take an envelope from the pay station, write “Heartwood Pavilion” on it, and place it on their dashboard. While parking is available near the pavilion, please note that depending on the park’s busyness, some guests might need to park farther away. The envelope will help park rangers with permit verification.

You are always welcome to visit the bench anytime during Hitchcock’s operating hours, but we hope this date offers an opportunity for those who might not have park passes to see the park and bench.

Details

Location: Hitchcock Nature Center, 27792 Ski Hill Loop, Honey Creek, IA 51542
Date: Saturday, May 17, 2025- During Park Hours – 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Website: Hitchcock Nature Center Website
Parking: Write “Heartwood Pavilion” on an envelope from the pay station and place in your dash. The $5.00 fee has been paid for the event.
Trail Map -Legacy Loop was her favorite trail
Bench Location - The bench is located directly outside of the Loess Hills Lodge in the park.
Photos – You can add any photos you take near the bench or on the hike here Google Photos Album

Visit the bench and hike individually, with family or friends. There is no limit on how many people can attend in your group.

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In lieu of flowers, we are raising money toward the installation of a memorial for our mom at Hitchcock park. She had a passion for hiking and Hitchcock became a haven for her during the pandemic and throughout her treatment. We hope a memorial in this space can be used as a place for anyone who loved her to retreat and remember all she was.

Any excess funds will be put toward causes that were important to our mom during her life.

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