KATE GORZALA

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KATE GORZALA 1919 2009 On June 24, 2009 at Misericordia Place, Winnipeg, surrounded by her loving family and after a courageous and rewarding life, God called our beloved Mother and Baba to join those loved ones who have gone before. Kate is survived by a family she cherished and loved unconditionally; daughter Roswitha Gabrielle, her children Tony and Donna (Stephan, Matthew, Jordan, Adam), Rick and Wanda (Courtney, Jared), Michelle and Rob, and Leanne and Mike; daughter Chris Graham, her children Sarah and Jorge (Katia), and Michael; and son Henry and Elizabeth, and their children Heather and Andrea. Kate was predeceased by her beloved husband, Marian Gorzala (1980), her parents and sisters. Kate was born August 4, 1919 in Wiele, Prussia, daughter of a teacher and a postmistress and youngest of three daughters. As national borders changed after First World War, the family moved to Germany when Kate was three, settling in Fulda, Hessen. Kate followed her father's footsteps becoming a teacher. The Second World War disrupted her life and career, but, through it all, she met the love of her life, Marian Gorzala. Kate and Marian immigrated to Canada in 1949, spending a year in Quebec, after which they settled in Virden, Manitoba where Kate had distant relatives. There they created a home full of love. Kate was well-known for her delicious cooking, and beautiful flower, fruit and vegetable gardens. She will be remembered as a meticulous dresser who took great pride in presenting herself well at all occasions. Her children and grandchildren were the centre of her life. After Marian passed away, she continued to live in Virden surrounded by her family and many friends. In 1996, she moved to Bethel Place, Winnipeg, where she continued to be known as the road runner as she took daily walks to Grant Park in her high heels. She spent the last three years of her life at Misericordia Health Centre and Misericordia Place where, despite her ailing health, she continued to form strong friendships with fellow residents and staff. Kate had a zest for life and keen sense of adventure. In her late 60's at Expo 86, she accompanied her grandson on dare-devil rides. In her 80's, she celebrated New Year's Eve in Cancun, Mexico. Many adventures were also taken by Kate and her sister, Maria, throughout Europe and North America. Kate always said it never costs anything to smile and be friendly to everyone. She will be remembered by all she encountered as a genuinely friendly person. Her family and friends mourn her passing but celebrate her life. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, June 30 at 1:00 p.m. at Sacred Heart Roman Catholic Church in Virden, Manitoba. A memorial mass will take place on Saturday, July 4 at 11:00 a.m. at St. Ignatius Roman Catholic Church in Winnipeg, Manitoba. In Kate's memory, donations may be made to the Canadian Catholic Organization for Development and Peace. The family wishes to thank the staff of Misericordia Place for their care and affection for Mom during her time with them, especially her last days.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jun 27, 2009