In Celebration of

Aretta Gawdiak-Smyth

September 17, 1948 -  February 3, 2020

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Aretta on Monday, February 3, 2020 in her 72nd year, peacefully, with her family by her side. Beloved wife of Peter for 42 years, loving mother of Aedan, Ciara, Taigh and his wife Dasha.
Born in Bavaria to immigrant parents from Ukraine and Poland, Aretta lived a life of love and service to others, touching everyone she encountered. Her kindness, gentleness and generosity accompanied her strength of will and sincerity. Aretta loved spending time with family and friends, teaching, gardening and reading. In latter years she practiced Nichiren Buddhism, a practice through which she could realize her fundamental values of love and respect for all.
Aretta's family would like to extend their deepest thanks to her caregivers and family and friends for their love and support during this very difficult time.
Visitation will take place on Staurday, February 15, 2020 from 10 to 11 a.m., with a Memorial Celebration beginning at 11 a.m. at Turner & Porter Yorke Chapel, 2357 Bloor St. W. (at Windermere, east of the Jane subway).
In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations be made to the Canadian Cancer Society.

Guestbook 

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Owen 

Entered February 5, 2020

Aretta was as kind as can be and had immeasurable compassion. I'll always remember her humor and smile. My deepest sympathies to the family.

Nick & Janet Shepherd (Friends)

Entered February 6, 2020 from Arnprior / Ottawa

Thinking about you all and remembering you in our prayers. Wishing you the strength to get through these challenging times.

Aretta was a caring soul with love and forgiveness deep in her heart - you will be missed. I will try and make sure Peter does not get lost.

XX

Eke Van der Zee (Colleague of Peter - a long time ago.)

Entered February 7, 2020 from Seagrave

Peter and Family,

My condolences with the loss of your wife and mother. A great loss and an enormous empty place in your lives and home.

Thinking of you.

Kate Greco (SGI Canada)

Entered February 10, 2020 from Toronto

Dear Peter and Family,

I feel so fortunate to have known Aretta during the time that she practiced Nichiren Buddhism. Her warm smile, her gentle character and her quiet fortitude will stay with me.

I know she will be greatly missed and my heart goes out to you.

With love and sincere sympathy,

Kate

Sean and Susan QUIGLEY 

Entered February 10, 2020 from Toronto

Dear Peter, Aedan, Ciara, Taigh and Family:

We are so very sorry to learn of Aretta's passing. We have such fond memories of her time with us on Armadale when Aedan was so young and Ciara had just been born. She was always so happy and joyful. She had such a flare for life. Please know that our deepest sympathy and our love are with you all during this difficult time.

May she rest in peace.

Sincerely,

Sean, Susan and the Quigley Family
xox

Photos 

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