Kowalewski: Josefa Maria,
Our Mother, Babcia, PraBabcia passed away peacefully on Thursday March 16, 2017 in Newmarket, Ontario. Her courage, lively spirit, devotion to the family and love of people was so much appreciated by those that knew her. From her native Przemyśl, in Poland and as a teenager she experienced the horrors of WW2, thru Germany, France and eventually joining with the Polish forces in the UK. In Scotland she was married and had her first son. Soon a second son was born in Wales. At the end of the war the family of four emigrated to Argentina facing many challenges in adapting to the environment and the needs of a growing family. She had three more boys, was active in their starter shoe factory, learning and managing in a different culture by hard work and common sense. Her organizing of Easter Sunday and Christmas Eve celebrations were very special with her delicious Polish dishes, songs and plenty of joy. This became a tradition for the entire current family of today. In 1961 the family of seven emigrated to Canada, increasing her family by one more boy and new challenges.
She was predeceased by her husband of 64 years Jan Kowalewski. She will be fondly remembered by her sons John (Marnie), Henry (Janice), Richard (Wendy), Stanley (Jan), Karl (Kris), and Walter (Sandra). Also her grandchildren Alicia, James, Andrew, Camille, Nicole, Alannah, Dylan, Kyle, Kristyn, Christi, Jennifer, Stephanie, Kasia, Karoline, and Kristofer. As well her twelve great grandchildren. The family is grateful to the staff at Amica in Newmarket for their exceptional care and companionship during her enjoyable home there. Also the care and support from the paramedics and nurses of the Southlake Hospital emergency are much appreciated.
According to her wishes cremation took place, followed by a private family funeral. A celebration of life will be arranged at a later date. In lieu of flowers the family suggests a donation to the Southlake Hospital Emergency Department or charity of your choice.
Diane Masschaele says
Karl, Kris and family, I’m very sorry to hear of your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Mary and Jerry Forest says
Dear John, Marnie and Family,
Jerry and I would like to thank you for introducing us to your beloved Babcia all those years ago. Over the many functions that brought us together, we had found her to be a very bright, happy, and fun loving individual. Jerry and I always found it fun to try to communicate with your parents in our broken Polish. I don’t know what it translated to but they always laughed. Babcia has left behind lots of love and wonderful stories to be shared by us all. Thank you for being in our lives.
Mary and Jerry Forest
GUMIENIAK FAMILLY says
AND ALSO DEAR JOHN & FAMILY so sorry…..
GUMIENIAK FAMILLY says
DEAR KAROL, HENRY, RICHARD, STAN & WALLY AND ALL FAMILLY MEMBERS. OUR DEEPEST AND SINCERRE CONDOLENCES. WE WERE ALWAYS VERY CLOSE AND ENJOYED MANY HAPPY MOMENTS AND FAMILY OCASSIONS WITH YOUR DEAR MOM WHAT GREAT KOWALEWSKI TEAM LEADER AND ALWAYS POSITIVE WE WILL REMEMBER HER IN OUR HEARTS AND CHEERISH ALL THEESE GREAT MOMENTS SPEND IN HER COMPANY….THE JOURNEY CONTINIUES….. MAY SHE REST IN PEACE AND LOVE SHARED BY ALL OF US.
Roy Wakerley says
So sorry to hear the sad news. May God be with you all through this difficult time.
Trudy Kuta says
I am truly sorry to hear of the loss of your mother. My heartfelt condolences go out to the family. I will miss the presence of a dear friend.
Pierre and Greta says
Our deepest condolences to the
family Kowalewski for the
passing of your beloved
mother Josefa.
We wish you all strength
in these sad days and the
near future.
Carmen & Mary Elin Arico says
Walter, Karl, Richard, Henry and Stan, it is so very difficult to say goodbye to our parents; we are never prepared. Knowing that she is now with your father we pray this gives you peace.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Jennifer fuscaldo says
I enjoyed your wonderful stories and the love and pride u shared with me for your family. I met you all, may God bless u Josefa and all your loved ones…jennifer xo
Kevin, Lilly, Adam & Carrera says
John,Henry,Richard,Stan,Karl and Wally we are so sad to hear of your wonderful mothers passing. Are prayers are with you and your families. She is now ‘watching’ over all of you with her beloved Jan.
Anita and Dale says
So very sorry to learn of the passing of Karl’s mom. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. She is at peace now and with her beloved husband.
Jim & Kathy Locke says
Very sorry to hear of the passing of your mother. Our deepest sympathy. Jim and Kathy (formerly of Grenadier Rd.)
Steve & Jenna says
Thinking of Karoline and the entire family during this difficult time. Our thoughts are with you all.