It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Maria Tomaszewski (nee Fulawka), on Wednesday, April 15, 2020 succumbing to the COVID-19 virus. Maria, 83 years young, predeceased by her husband, Kazimierz (2005), leaves behind four sons, Richard, Les, Jerry and Henry, six grand-children, Samantha, Sarah, Stefanie, Mitchell, Melanie and Nicholas and five sisters, a tremendous loss to everyone.

Maria was born in Poland in 1936, the second child of six. As a young girl she witnessed the German and Russian invasions of Poland during WWII, fortunately, living through these horrific times with her family. Soon after the war, she contracted Tuberculosis, which she overcame as well, however, the disease left her with a permanent hip and leg disability. Her inner strength, passion for life and sense of adventure did not allow her disability to hold her down and as a young adult in the late 50’s, she, the first in her family, embarked on a trip to Canada to visit her dear uncle (Pich), a caring and mentoring figure in her life.

During her trip to Canada, she met her future husband, Kazimierz, whom she married back in Poland in 1960. Soon after, she emigrated to Canada to start a new life, which included four children between 1963 and 1974. Maria’s focus was not only on her immediate family but also on the family that she left behind in Poland.
Aside for the care packages she sent back to her family, she sponsored several of her sisters to also emigrate to Canada, allowing them and their families the opportunity for better lives in a free Canada.

Maria was a loving and caring wife and mother, overcoming her personal disability and barriers to provide the best for her family. On top of her immediate family, she continued to care for and support her broader family, further sending care packages to Poland and offering support to her sisters in Canada.

A fiercely religious person, she volunteered her time and efforts within the Polish Church and community. She worked hard to live by and hold true to her religious values, thinking always of others first.

Mama was our guiding light, our anchor, our crutch and our shoulder to cry on. She pushed us hard to make us better but at the same time, made sure we were humble and grounded. She was quick to discipline but also quick to praise. She loved with her whole heart and without reservation. She had a great sense of humor and loved to laugh, bringing joy to us and to those around her. She has left her mark on us and on all of those that she has touched – if our role in life is to contribute and to help others, Maria was an outstanding success.

Mama, we thank you for your love, your courage, your dedication, your laughter and your limitless support. You will be deeply missed. Forever in our hearts. We love you dearly.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Maria's memory can be made to the Polish Orphans Charity.

http://www.polishorphans.org/donate.htm