Lois Ann Hunter Kucharek, 82, of Montague, passed away on July 20, 2026, after a short battle with cancer.

Born on June 17, 1944, in Jersey City, New Jersey, to Franklyn and Helen Hunter, Lois grew up in Matawan. After graduating from high school, she attended nursing school before choosing to dedicate herself to raising her family in Keyport—a role she cherished above all else. Lois married the love of her life, John Kucharek, and together they built a life centered on family and a love of the outdoors. They eventually settled in Montague, where they spent the last 35 years of their lives together.

Lois is survived by her daughters, Cindy Phillips (Jerry Nudi) and Beth (Glenn) Rodland; her grandchildren, Andrew (Olga) Rodland, Jay Rodland (Cady Harris), Anthony Phillips, and Nicholas Phillips; her great-grandchildren, Anthony Jr. and Cecelia Phillips, and Anna Rodland; her sister, Lynn (Thomas) Mitchell; and several beloved nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband, John Kucharek, her daughter, Lori Carey and son-in-law, William Carey.

Lois found joy in spending time with her family, being outdoors, tending her gardens, traveling the country with John, and creating beautiful handmade items. Although she never pursued a professional career, Lois was an avid reader with an insatiable curiosity about the world. She was remarkably well-read and possessed a wealth of knowledge on an extraordinary range of subjects, often surprising those around her with her insight and knowledge. She remained active for as long as she was able, and even as her health declined, she faced each day with remarkable strength, determination and resilience. 

Private services will be held at the family’s request.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Lois’s memory to  -- American Brain Foundation