Peacefully, with her family by her side, Irena passed away on Friday, June 20, 2025 at Dorothy Ley Hospice at the age of 80. Beloved mother of Aldona (Joseph Abate) and adoring babcia to Daniel, she was predeceased by her husband Krzysztof. She will also be deeply missed by siblings Emilia and Zdzislaw, treasured cousin Marysia, and her many cherished nieces, nephews and cousins in Poland.

A graduate of the Maria Curie-Sklodowska University’s chemistry program, Irene courageously left behind a promising career and loving family to start a new life in Canada. Irena ultimately built a career at the Ontario Food Terminal that spanned decades, due in no small part to her diligence and ability to arrive at her desk at 4 o’clock every morning.

Irena’s work ethic and resilience were an inspiration to her daughter and family. Despite the demands of work and home, Irena cultivated and treasured many friendships, cared for her beloved pet Doberman, who predeceased her, and maintained a life rich with hobbies and a deep appreciation of beauty in dance, music, film and gardens. With the birth of her grandson these loves were eclipsed and he became the light of her life.

Friends and family may call at the Turner & Porter Butler Chapel, 4933 Dundas St. W., Etobicoke (between Kipling & Islington Aves.) on Thursday June 26th from 6-8 pm. Funeral Mass will be held at noon on Friday June 27th at St. Mark’s Catholic Church on 277 Park Lawn Road, Toronto, Ontario.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Irena’s memory can be made to charities that support children or wildlife