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BROWNIE ZAWADSKI
Born: Feb 21, 1924
Date of Passing: Dec 24, 2024
Send Flowers to the Family Offer Condolences or MemoryBROWNIE ZAWADSKI
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and great-great-grandfather, (Opa). Brownie passed peacefully after a short illness.
Brownie was predeceased by his cherished wife, Liza in 2019. Brownie is survived by his five children, Brian (Maggie), Carla (Stan), Robert (Dawn), Douglas (Sophie), and Sheila. Brownie will forever be remembered by his 12 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, and one great-great grandchild, as well as nephew Tom (Sandra).
Brownie was born February 21, 1924, in the town of Transcona and was raised on a farm in Argyle, Manitoba.
After completing Grade 12 at Teulon Collegiate, Brownie went to work at Central Patricia Gold Mines in Pickle Lake, Ontario. He later worked for a brief period at Eaton’s and United Grain Growers. By this time, he had accumulated sufficient funds to complete a business course at the Success College in Winnipeg.
Brownie’s knowledge of agriculture and his easygoing manner with people led him to a position with the Department of Immigration and Agriculture. In this role, he traveled across Canada by CPR train as an interpreter on the Special Immigrant Trains, assisting immigrants as they were transferred from eastern ports of entry to their final destinations in Western Canada.
While visiting a friend at Deer Lodge Hospital, Brownie met Liza, who would later become his beloved wife. Together, they settled in Winnipeg, where, with Liza's support, Brownie established a casual wedding photography business.
Children quickly followed and they moved to Brandon in 1959. For the next several years, he supervised farm management, administering rural properties, securing and managing tenants, and overseeing building construction.
In 1967, Brownie and Liza moved the family to Churchill Drive in the Riverview area of Winnipeg. Brownie began working with the Land Acquisition Branch as an appraiser and negotiator. Brownie took pride in acquiring the land for the creation of Oak Hammock Marsh.
Opa was a believer in the value of pursuing diverse interests; dedicating his time to volunteering, education, music, sports, and travel. His support for his grandchildren was unwavering, often encouraging them to explore their passions by personally engaging in these activities or by ensuring they had the tools they needed - whether through signing them up for lessons, purchasing equipment, or offering a helping hand along the way.
Brownie and Liza's home was a welcoming gathering place for their family, where children and grandchildren would come together to share cherished moments and create lasting memories. The backyard at Churchill Drive was the backdrop for many lively events, from kids camping in tents to countless horseshoe, croquet, badminton and dart games. The grandchildren loved picking raspberries from the large family garden and helping harvest apples.
Brownie retired at the age of 65, and that’s when his life truly gained momentum. He became an active participant in a variety of pursuits, including curling, hockey, softball, golf, violin, and fishing in Cranberry Portage. Brownie was a frequent blood donor and was recognized for over fifty donations.
His passion for community service led him to volunteer for organizations such as Meals on Wheels, Winnipeg Harvest, and the Arthritis Society, among others. Brownie was deeply involved in local politics, a proud member of the Liberal Party, and enjoyed working with organizing and nominating committees. He was also a member of the Southglen Fiddlers and Winnipeg Pops Orchestra.
A devoted wine enthusiast, Brownie was an active member of a local wine club. His dedication to the wine and beer craft earned him numerous awards in local and national competitions.
Brownie’s travels included two memorable tours of China. He and Liza also explored Germany, Hawaii, Cuba, and Portugal. In addition, they made many out-of-province trips to visit their grandchildren in Nunavut and Alberta, creating cherished memories along the way.
Brownie had a natural way with people. He had a gift for striking up conversations, quickly getting to know others by asking about their work and often discovering connections with their family. He would exchange phone numbers and make a point of staying in touch.
Brownie lived a long, fulfilling life, surrounded by the love and support of his family until the very end.
Cremation has taken place. Service and interment will follow at later date.
The family would like to thank the staff at Extendicare Tuxedo Villa for providing outstanding care for Brownie. We would also like to thank Reverend Fr. Patrick Neufeld.
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jan 04, 2025
Condolences & Memories (1 entries)
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Extending our deepest sympathy on the sad passing of your family patriarch. Thank you for sharing this wonderful tribute highlighting Brownie Zawadski's enduring commitment to his family and community, Thinking of you all at this sad and difficult time. Sorry for your loss. Lynda Ruban staff and friends at the HSC Foundation. - Posted by: Lynda Ruban (staff at the HSC Foundation) on: Jan 06, 2025
