Theresa Mary (Lenik) Cleary, 84, died peacefully in her home in the early morning of Monday, July 4, 2016. She leaves the love of her life and only child, Cheryl Cleary of Springfield, and Cheryl's partner, Alan Dean of Somers, CT. Theresa was predeceased by her sister, Helen Pielka of South Hadley. Born in Holyoke, Theresa was the youngest of two children. Her parents, John and Anna (Gulik) Lenik, immigrated to the United States from Poland in the early 1900's. They settled in Chicopee where they built a successful farm business. Theresa had her sights set on a college education, the social graces, and a successful career in corporate business. Theresa was a proud member of the graduating class of 1949 from Chicopee High School, where she was a member of the Pro Merito Society. She attended the John Robert Powers School of Charm and completed its program. She then enrolled in the Carol Russell School of Modeling and embarked on a professional modeling career. At the same time, she took professional singing lessons to round out her skills and talent. She attended American International College which satisfied a great hunger to learn and she thrived in its academic college environment. She then enjoyed a successful career in business, holding several executive level positions in the Hartford/Springfield area. With a keen interest in politics and current world events, she was a regular follower of CNN. She possessed a life-long commitment to self-improvement and enjoyed lively philosophical discussions. In her earlier years, Theresa enjoyed New York City. Later she came to enjoy vacationing on Cape Cod with its beaches and boats and its natural beauty. Her favorite night out was to get dressed up and dine at a fine restaurant; high fashion and fine food suited her. Theresa was a Catholic and her faith was always an important part of her life. She regularly prayed the Rosary and called on her parish priest for guidance and to pray for her special intentions. The light of Theresa's life was her daughter, Cheryl, with whom she shared a mutually loving relationship. Theresa was Cheryl's infinite source of encouragement and inspiration. Theresa willingly made sacrifices to ensure Cheryl had the best life had to offer. She will be deeply and forever missed by her daughter, Cheryl Cleary and Alan Dean, who became like a son to her. The funeral will be Tuesday at 9am from the CURRAN-O'BRIEN FUNERAL HOME, 33 Lamb Street with a Mass at 10 at St. Anne's Church in Fairview. The burial will follow in Mater Dolorosa Cemetery. Calling hours are Monday from 4-8pm.