STEPHEN BURACZEWSKI

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STEPHEN BURACZEWSKI Peacefully, after a lengthy illness, on Monday, May 3, 2004, Stephen passed away at the Seven Oaks General Hospital at the age of 85 years. Lovingly remembered and deeply missed by Aline, his wife of 24 years of marriage; son Edward; and daughters, Helen Arkos (Julius) and Sheila Schwartz (Jeremy); step-children, Barbara Ternopolski (Joe), Gloria O'Rourke (Dan), Ben Szymkow (Diane) and Arthur Szymkow; grandchildren, Darcie, Roni, Jennifer, Amie, Matthew and Rebecca; and great-granddaughter Karlie. Born October 21, 1918, in Zambrow, Poland, Stephen's life was changed forever, as was for many of his generation by the Second World War. After the occupation of Poland, he was drafted into the Russian Army, where he served for eighteen months before being sent to a labour camp in Siberia. When the Polish Army in exile was formed under General Sikorski, Stephen was transported to England and then to Scotland for training as a paratrooper. He participated in 21 jumps as part of the Polish Airborne Division of the British Army, including Operation Market Garden over Arnhem, Holland. After the war, Stephen resettled in Lincolnshire, England resuming his trade as a blacksmith. He moved once more to settle permanently in Winnipeg in 1956. Stephen was very proud of his career with Dominion Bridge, where he worked for over 20 years as a fitterwelder and then as an inspector until his retirement. Stephen was an avid fisherman and mushroom picker, but his backyard garden was his pride and joy. When he could no longer dig, he continued to supervise his wife, Aline, who took over the task. He was a man of strong opinions and loved to debate loudly. He spent a lifetime attempting to play the accordion. Stephen was at home in the rich culture of the North End. He knew where to find the best markets and butcher shops. He was a member of the Legion Branch 34, the Polish Combatants Association and the Polish Fraternal Aid Society of St. John Cantius. He enjoyed many evenings of dancing at the Legion and at SPK. He lamented at never winning at cards against Aline. At Stephen's request, a private family funeral service will be held. Our family would like to express their appreciation for the care that Stephen received at Seven Oaks General Hospital, particularly to the staff in Unit 4, 3rd Floor. "REST IN PEACE" WOJCIK'S ALL BELIEFS & FAITHS FUNERAL CHAPEL & CREMATORIUM 897 – 4665

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on May 05, 2004