It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved aunt, Inger Brania. She passed peacefully at St. Joseph’s Health Centre in Toronto, on August 6th, 2024, in her 86th year. She leaves behind a legacy of love, learning, and resilience.

Inger is survived by her cherished nephews, Garth Brania (Elisha Brania) and Drew Brania (Tricia); her sister-in-law Joan Brania (Larry); and great-niece & great-nephew, Samantha and Raymond Jr. She was predeceased by her brother Raymond and parents, Ted and Sophie. Inger will be deeply missed by many friends and her devoted caregivers who became like family, especially Jolanta and Susee.

Born and raised in Toronto to Polish immigrant parents, Inger possessed an insatiable curiosity and a spirit of adventure that defined her life. A lifelong learner, she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from York University, and immersed herself in a wide range of passionate interests, including decades of study in Jungian depth psychology. Her appreciation for the natural world led her to become an avid skier, runner, cyclist, and scuba diver. She loved concerts, art galleries, museums, libraries, orchid & gem shows, her favourite restaurants, cats, dogs, tea, bookstores, road trips around the province, and the zoo.

Drew and Garth will always hold their regular visits to see her close to their hearts. As kids, it was a thrill when "Auntie I" first got her driver’s license, and feasts in Chinatown soon became a frequent indulgence. Her nephews will always be grateful for the many memories they created together, and everything she taught them about their late father (her brother Ray) and their Polish grandparents.

As a dedicated teacher of 35 years, all at Garden Ave. P.S., Inger inspired countless students to discover nature and embrace music & literature. One of her proudest moments was when a former student approached her in public and told her that she had taught him and other former students to appreciate art.

Music was another of Inger’s great joys. As a skilled pianist, she served as accompanist for children’s choirs and school concerts. Her home was a natural sanctuary, forever filled with orchids, plants, aquariums and beloved pets. Inger was an animal lover extraordinaire (especially her maine coon cats Pepper & Meggie) and was also a staunch lifelong supporter of the Toronto Humane Society. She was always dedicated to animal welfare, and treated every animal with a rare admiration, respect and kindness.

Through her courageous 45-year battle with rheumatoid arthritis, Inger kept her sense of humour and love for life, even during the most challenging times. She had a uniquely individualistic spirit and her will to live and experience life as fully as possible remained unwavering. Her intelligence, wit, keen interest for learning and dedication to personal growth continued to inspire those around her until the very end, as it always will.

The family would like to extend heartfelt gratitude to the staff at St. Joseph’s Health Centre and her many loyal caregivers for their exceptional care and compassion.

Cremation has taken place and friends may call for a visitation at the Turner & Porter Yorke Chapel, 2357 Bloor St. W., on Tuesday, August 20th, 2024, from 6-9 pm. Donations in Inger’s memory may be made to the Toronto Humane Society or Arthritis Society Canada.