Stasia passed away peacefully with her sons by her side at Hamilton General Hospital on Saturday, November 17, 2018, in her 91st year. She was the beloved wife of the late John (2002); the loving mother of Dr. Rick (Rita) and Fred (Debbie); the cherished Babcia of Stephanie (Dr. Scott Somerville), Dr. Stephen, Richard, Marc, Janusz, Nicolas, and Edan; and doting Prababcia of Owen Archer and Avery Stella.
Stasia was born in MoĊciska, Poland in 1928. She was a survivor and an independent individual her entire life. At age 13, Stasia survived being abducted and taken to Germany to work in a labour camp. She survived WWII, whereas her parents, brothers, sisters and extended family did not. She was liberated by the French; and she came to Canada on her own, at age 18, with $5 in her pocket as a Displaced Person.
Stasia needed to be fiercely independent to survive, and she was that to the very last, refusing home care and assistance while living on her own. She was a caring, loving individual putting family and friends above all. She was a role model for her sons and an inspiration for her grandchildren.
Stasia was past president of the Polish Alliance Women’s Auxiliary in Hamilton, a founding member of the Polish Seniors Club of Burlington, and a member of the Polish National Alliance.
Babcia, you will be missed but not forgotten.
Visitation at SMITH'S FUNERAL HOME, 1167 Guelph Line (one stoplight north of QEW), BURLINGTON (905-632-3333) on Monday, November 19 from 5-9 p.m. Vigil prayers for Stella Monday 8 p.m. at the funeral home. Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Gabriel Roman Catholic Church (2261 Parkway Dr, Burlington) on Tuesday, November 20 at 11 a.m. For those who wish, the family would appreciate memorial donations to the War Amps or a charity of your choice.