IRIS ZAGOZEWSKI

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IRIS ZAGOZEWSKI For almost seven years our precious mom fought a determined battle against breast cancer. Motivated by a strong desire to stay with her family, she maintained a positive attitude throughout her illness and treatments. Sadly, on January 5, 2007, mom could fight no longer and she passed away peacefully at her home in Riverton, surrounded by her beloved family. Iris was born in Riverton on July 7, 1936 and was the eldest daughter of Gisli and Asta Gislason. On June 26, 1954 she married Alex Zagozewski and together they created a beautiful home and raised their four children. She will be missed by Kent (Janice), James (Sharon), Michelle (Craig), and Janine (Kris). Her grandchildren Ryan, Sarah, Lawson, Jamie, Matthew, Eric, Brittany, Brady and Hilary were her pride and joy and they were very fortunate to have such a beautiful gentle Amma. She will also be missed by her brother Jonas (Elba), and her sister Leslee. Mom and Leslee shared a very special relationship as they were also best friends and neighbours. Mom touched the lives of many people and will be fondly remembered by all who knew her. Mom's life was devoted to being a wife and mother and she felt very blessed to have all her children and grandchildren living nearby. We were fortunate to have a stay at home mom who was always there when we needed her. A typical day for mom began at 10:15 a.m. when Jim, Sharon and Kent arrived for morning coffee. Kent returned for dinner at noon and the period from 1:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. was passed with Michelle or Jan. Wherever the girls went, mom went too. After school, the grandchildren arrived for a visit and snack. Following supper with dad, mom walked to Leslee's for tea, where she was usually joined by her girls. The day ended with a car ride around town. Mom took great pride in her home and was a wonderful cook. She also had a green thumb and had beautiful flowerbeds and hanging baskets. In earlier days she enjoyed curling, bingo and going for walks. Her favourite activity was going for car rides. It did not matter how long or how far the ride would be - if the wheels were moving, she was in the car. For the past few years, mom was a member of the Riverton Hnasusa Lutheran Church Altar Guild. She enjoyed the fellowship of the other group members and considered them all to be her good friends. In keeping with mom's wishes, cremation has taken place and a private family interment will be held. Family and friends are invited to a celebration of Iris's life on Wednesday, January 10 at 1:00 p.m. in the Riverton Community Hall. All are welcome. We would like to thank Dr. J. Lezack and the chemo nurses at Seven Oaks, Dr. S.V. Patel for his years of care, and Dr. R.C. Patel for being there when we needed him. On September 16, 2006, mom lost her husband Alex after 52 years of marriage. They were beautiful people who taught us the importance of family. We had an incredible relationship with our parents and we will cherish our memories of them forever. We find comfort in the hope that our parents have been reunited. In memory of mom, donations can be made to the Riverton Hnausa Lutheran Church. Gilbart Funeral Home in care of arrangements.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jan 08, 2007