It is with deep sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved mother, Jadwiga Zaremba, on February 11, 2025, at the age of 99. Born on September 30, 1925, in Łódź, Poland, she lived a long, rich life, filled with love, strength, resilience, and an unwavering devotion to her family.

Jadwiga was a cherished mother to Irena (Tony) and Wanda (Darek), and a proud grandmother to Michael (Emily), Adrian (Rebecca), Kristopher (Noam), Sierra, and Nolan. She is also survived by her sister, Wanda, and niece, Anna, in Poland. Predeceased by her parents Maria and Władysław, her beloved husband Piotr, her sisters Romana and Janina, and her nephews John, Andrzej, and Wojtek, she leaves behind a legacy of love and strength that will never be forgotten.

In 1958, Jadwiga immigrated to Canada to marry Piotr, and together, they built a life centered on love, hard work, and the importance of family. Her warmth, kindness, and selflessness were evident in everything she did, always putting others before herself.

Family was everything to Jadwiga. She was a nurturing mother who made her daughters feel loved and supported at all times. Her grandchildren held a special place in her heart, and she delighted in showering them with love, attention, and treats. She spent countless hours rocking each of them to sleep as infants, comforting them when they were sick, and as they grew older, telling them stories at mealtimes and before bed. Her famous naleśniczki (crepes) always made an appearance when regular meals weren’t enough for picky eaters, and she often slipped $20 bills into their hands to satisfy little desires she had overheard. She found joy in making each of them feel special and instilled in them the importance of family and education.

Jadwiga cherished every moment spent with family. At home or at the cottage, even into her 90s, she could be found playing hide-and-seek, arm wrestling, doing somersaults, or attempting jujitsu moves with her grandchildren. Many rainy days were spent doing arts and crafts, or playing games like chess, checkers, War, Trouble, and Go Fish. Through it all, she passed down her love for tradition, togetherness, and family—values that will continue to guide her loved ones for generations to come.

Her love, strength, and playful spirit will be dearly missed by all who knew her. The love she gave will forever live on in the hearts of her family.

We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to the exceptional caregivers who supported Mama in her final years: Elena in Toronto, and Olena, Katja, and Denise in Midland with homecare as well as the staff at Copernicus Lodge, especially the 6th floor team, for their outstanding care during Mama’s time there.

A special thank you goes to “our angels”—Jocelyn, Yodite, Virgie, Malu, Mercy, Evangelina, and Cristy. Your tireless dedication and kindness over the past two years went beyond providing physical care; you also offered emotional comfort, making Mama’s final years peaceful and full of love. You held her hand through difficult moments, comforted her with hugs and cuddles, and ensured she was always comfortable. Your compassion, patience, and commitment brought comfort to both Mama and our entire family, knowing she had the best care possible. (Jocelyn, we cannot thank you enough for ensuring someone was always there for Mama) In a world that often feels rushed and disconnected, it’s rare to find such selflessness and compassion. We are eternally grateful for each of you.

Farewell, Mama and Babcia. Our hearts are filled with love and gratitude for everything you were to us. May you rest in peace, reunited with Tata by your side. You will always be remembered, and our love for you will never fade.

Visitation will take place at Turner & Porter Yorke Chapel on Monday, February 24th, from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. (Rosary at 6:30 p.m.). The Funeral Mass will be held on Tuesday, February 25th, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Casimir's Church, followed by interment at Park Lawn Cemetery.