MARY SZELAG (TOMALA)

Adjust Text Size: A+ A-

MARY SZELAG (nee TOMALA) February 9, 1926 October 28, 2011 Sadly on Friday morning, October 28, 2011, Mary passed away with family by her side. Mary was a caring and loving wife, mother, grandmother and recently great-grandmother. She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Leon in 2005 and has now been reunited. Mom will be lovingly remembered by her daughters; Dianne and husband Bruce Henderson, Krystyna and husband Craig Parker, Alexandra and husband Keith Bruch; grandchildren Scott, Sarah, Leon and Ryan and wife Andrea, great-grandchild Oliver and special family friend Rosemary Kowalchuk. Mary was born of Polish decent and survived the Second World War to come to Canada where she met Leon, her husband of 53 years. They began their long life together against all odds and raised three very grateful daughters. She worked hard all of her life in order to create a good home for her family. Mom was a very giving person and would never think twice about helping out a friend or be it even a stranger in need. She was the best cook and her recipes never could be duplicated as they consisted of a little of this and a handful of that. Mom loved a good conversation as Dad always reminded her. It was always a challenge to call her without getting a busy signal on the other end. She enjoyed watching her wrestling programs and was an avid bingo enthusiast no matter what the weather. Mom was always there for her family and even in her last months she would worry about family first. Mom's Roman Catholic faith was very strong throughout her life. She would never be without one of her many prayer books. The last 10 months were a struggle for her but she was stubborn and fought right through to the end. She was determined to beat this illness and with that spirit we will always remember her and her smile. We know she is now with Dad and that the two of them will be looking out for us all. In keeping with Mom's wishes, cremation has taken place, and no formal service will be held. A celebration of her life will take place on Tuesday, November 1, 2011. Friends and family can drop in between 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at 34 Lawndale Avenue. A private interment will follow at a later date. The family wishes to thank all the wonderful staff at Thorvaldson Care Centre for respecting our mother and making her last months possible. Big hugs to the nurses of the 3rd floor East wing at Riverview, especially Helen and student nurse Candace for allowing our Mom to pass with dignity. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Riverview Care Centre or a charity of your choice. We will always love you Mom and keep you in our hearts forever.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Oct 29, 2011