FRANK GARBIZ

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FRANK GARBIZ Peacefully on July 20, 2007, Frank passed away at St. Joseph's Residence at the age of 85 years. Frank was much loved by his family, nephew Richard and Doreen Garvin and their children Max and Jackson of Toronto; as well as niece and relatives in Poland. He was predeceased by his loving wife Helen. Frank Garbiz was born on January 1, 1922, in Kazimierzow in the district of Tarnopol, Poland. Like many other Polish families, his too was expelled from their home and deported to Siberia, where he was forced to work in the forests. After the outbreak of war between Russia and Germany, he was released from captivity and joined the newly formed Polish Army. After many travels through Iran, Egypt and Palestine, and following military training, he was sent to the Italian front, where he took an active part in the victorious battle of Monte Cassino and the balance of the Italian campaign. He served in the 2nd Warsaw Armoured Division, 1st Regiment of Ulans of Krychowiec. He received his honourable discharge in 1947 with the rank of Corporal and was awarded the Polish Cross of the Brave, Monte Cassino Cross, Military Cross and the Cross of the Polish Fighting Forces in the West. His English decorations included the 1939-45 Star, the Italy Star, Defense Medal and War Medal. He arrived in Canada on May 25, 1947, and after spending some time working on farms, settled in Winnipeg in 1949. He was employed by Canada Iron Foundries and Kipp Kelly as a welder and retired at the age of 62 years. Throughout his life Frank was involved in many Polish organizations and in particular in the Canadian Polish Branch 246 of the Royal Canadian Legion, where he performed the duties of treasurer for many years. In recognition of his devoted and selfless service, he was awarded the Past Treasurer Medal, Diamond Jubilee Medal, Legion Life Membership and eventually the Meritorious Service Medal. In 1999 Frank lost his wife, who was his lifelong companion and best friend and he missed her greatly. He was always polite to everyone, well spoken and his unassuming manner made him many friends. He will be sadly missed by all of us whom he is leaving behind and he leaves a void in our hearts. A great void but also pride to have known Frank, who was not only a true and faithful friend, but also a very decent, honest and sincere human being. Special thanks to the staff of St. Joseph's Residence and the Sharon Home. Prayers will be held on Thursday, July 26 at 7:00 p.m. at Cropo Funeral Chapel, 1442 Main St. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, July 27 at 10:00 a.m., with visitation beginning at 9:30 a.m., at Holy Ghost Roman Catholic Church, 341 Selkirk Avenue, with an Oblate Father as Celebrant. Interment to follow in Holy Ghost Cemetery. May God grant him eternal peace. Dowidzenia, Frank - 'till we meet again. CROPO FUNERAL CHAPEL 586-8044

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jul 25, 2007