LESLAW ADAM WAZNY

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LESLAW ADAM WAZNY

On December 19, 2024, at 8:15 pm, surrounded by his devoted family, Leslaw Adam Wazny—known to many as Leszek, to his children as Dad, and to his beloved grandchildren as Dzidada—took his final bow on life’s stage. He was born on October 10, 1962, in Lubaczow, Poland, and what a story he lived.

Leszek’s life was defined by bold choices, none greater than the one he made at just 17 years old. Leaving the familiar streets of Lubaczow, he journeyed through Austria and Hungary before eventually landing in Canada. It was a decision rooted in courage—a leap into the unknown that rippled across generations. Leszek became the spark, the catalyst, for the connections, friendships, and family that flourished wherever he went.

In Winnipeg, he met Tess, the woman who would become the love of his life. It was 1983, and from the moment they met, Leszek knew she was the one. They married a year later, on September 14, 1984, and together built a life defined by love, partnership, and adventure. He adored her, a devotion so deep it was visible to anyone who saw them together. Tess was his anchor, his constant, his everything. Together, they traveled the world, creating cherished memories in places like Paris, with its romantic allure, and the Philippines, where Leszek connected deeply with her family. These trips weren’t just vacations—they were stories, treasured moments he would recount with a sparkle in his eye.

Leszek’s children, Victoria and Konrad, looked to their father as a man of wisdom, strength, and unity. He was the one they turned to for guidance, for clarity when life felt uncertain, and for a steady presence that always reminded them what family meant. But more than anything, Leszek was a dad who loved to play. No matter how long or hard his workday was, he would come home, roll up his sleeves, and immerse himself in his kids’ world. Whether it was wrestling, soccer, hockey, or splashing in the backyard pool, he made every moment count. Victoria and Konrad will forever cherish the memories of those playful, joyful days and the love their father poured into them.

To his grandchildren, Wesley and Xavier, Leszek was Dzidada, the grandfather who showed up no matter what. Even when he was physically struggling, he made every effort to play, laugh, and simply be there for them. His grandchildren were his pride, his joy, his legacy, and they knew how much they meant to him in every hug, every smile, every laugh they shared.

Leszek also shared a special bond with Angel, who saw him as a steady and caring father figure. In her life, as in so many others, Leszek was a source of strength and guidance.

Leszek’s friendships spanned decades and continents. He was part of the “Lubaczow boys”, a close-knit group of childhood friends that included his brother Marek and Janusz, who now lives in San Diego. Leszek was the glue that held them all together, connecting the Lubaczow boys in North America to their cousins in Poland and mainland Europe. His pride in his family, his heritage, and the Wazny name was unmatched. He was a bridge-builder, keeping traditions alive and ensuring the bonds of family endured across borders and generations.

For 30 years, Leszek dedicated himself to the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit at Health Sciences Centre, offering care and compassion to families during their most vulnerable moments. His work there wasn’t just a career; it was a calling. Along the way, he built lifelong friendships, especially with Todd and Fernando, colleagues he often spoke about in his later years with warmth and admiration. These connections were a testament to the man Leszek was—dedicated, kind, and deeply loyal.

A die-hard Winnipeg Jets fan, Leszek’s passion for sports was as loud as his cheers—or his frustrated yells at the TV. On weekend mornings, he was a proud Liverpool supporter, though his soft spot for Manchester United remained a point of playful confusion for everyone around him.

Music was another love that defined Leszek’s life. A self-proclaimed punk rocker, his tastes evolved over time, but his passion for music never waned. He wasn’t one to pick up a guitar, but he loved to “jam” by listening to music, immersing himself in the rhythm and sharing that joy with others. Music was his bridge to connection, his way of bringing people together and creating moments of joy.

Leszek’s infectious laugh was his signature. It was the kind of laugh that could fill a room, disarm tension, and remind everyone to find humour in the moment. He combined that lightness with a no-nonsense attitude, cutting through life’s noise with clarity and purpose. And, true to the man he was, Leszek ensured that everything was in order for his family before his final day came—a final act of love and care for the people who meant everything to him.

As we say goodbye, we are struck by the extraordinary man Leszek was—a devoted husband, a playful father, an adoring Dzidada, a loyal friend, and so much more. His life reminds us of the power of bold decisions, the importance of family, and the joy of truly living.

Godspeed, Dad. Adam. Leszek. Dzidada. We love you, and we are so proud to have called you ours.

A service to honor Leszek’s life will be held on January 3, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at Glen Eden, 4477 Main St, West St. Paul, Manitoba.

Rest in peace, Leszek. Your laughter, music, and love will echo in our hearts forever.

Glen Eden Funeral Home

204-338-7111

Tributes: www.glenedenmemorial.ca

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Dec 28, 2024