Cynthia "Cindy" Ann Makowski

Cynthia “Cindy” Makowski, age 70, went to heaven on Friday, August 21, 2026, at Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester, N.Y., after a long illness. She was born on August 17, 1956, a cherished daughter of the late Edmund Wozniak and Elizabeth Eldred Wozniak.

A lifelong resident of Syracuse, Cindy graduated from Sacred Heart Academy in 1974. She later earned her R.N. at Onondaga Community College and her B.S.N. at SUNY Utica Rome.

Throughout her journey, Cindy touched countless lives with compassion, warmth, and kindness. She was dedicated to helping those in need as a critical care nurse and later served in health insurance management. She often said, “Nurse's touch lives. In this, they find victories and defeats, frustration and satisfaction.” Cindy lived those words every day. Her gentle presence, thoughtful gestures, and ready smile made others feel valued and understood.

Cindy married the love of her life, James Makowski, on June 24, 1978. Despite her health challenges, they shared a joyful life filled with family, friends, and simple pleasures. They spent several happy years in Fair Haven, N.Y., enjoying the outdoors and the peace of the lakeside.

Cindy was an excellent cook, known for making the best galobkis and kielbasa in the world. She acquired those skills from her beloved in-laws, Mary and James Makowski. Cindy was a Texas two‑step dancer, a flower gardener, a treasure‑seeker, and a spirited fundraiser for The Leukemia And Lymphoma Society. She had a gift for finding beauty in small things—a seashell, a blooming plant, a good bargain, a moment of laughter—and she shared that joy generously. She loved deeply, celebrated often, and made every gathering brighter with her humor and warmth.

She will be greatly missed and forever remembered.

Cindy is survived by her husband, James; her brother, James Wozniak (Barbara); and her sister, Wendy Tarby (Jack Liquori). She also loved being an aunt and great aunt and practiced it as a fine art.

Cindy faced her illness with remarkable courage and grace over the last five years. With gratitude and love, the family thanks her devoted friends who stepped up in her time of need and the doctors and nurses of Strong Memorial Hospital who provided exceptional care.

A memorial service celebrating Cindy’s life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Cindy’s memory may contribute to the family’s GoFundMe page, created to support final expenses and ongoing needs. Click here to donate.

“She had a way of making ordinary moments feel special—and that is how she will be remembered.”

To share a memory of Cindy or leave a special message for her family, visit the guest book below.