ANDRZEJ ADAM WALCZAK

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ANDRZEJ ADAM WALCZAK
February 9, 1954 - May 12, 2022

It is with great sadness, we announce that on Thursday, May 12, 2022 in Watertown, South Dakota, our family lost their beloved hero in a tragic accident, Andrzej Adam Walczak. He ventured out in what would turn out to be his last adventure on the open road. He was 68.
Andrzej is survived by his children, Jacek (Kristy), Wojciech (Angela), Helena (Rodney); six grandchildren, Patryk, Hanna, Keanu, Mila, Max and Mia; his wife Urszula, and sister Jadwiga (Tomasz), brother Leszek (Iwona), and mother "babcia Hela" Helena. He was predeceased by his father Tadeusz.
Andrzej was born in February 9, 1954 in Koczala, Poland. He obtained a masters degree in forestry where he met Urszula Sekowska. While both still attending university they married and had their first son Jacek (born 1978). Their second son and daughter were born in 1981 and 1983 respectively. In 1987 they escaped communist Poland and spent one and half years moving through numerous refugee camps before finally finding refuge in Winnipeg, Canada in April 1989.
Andrzej "tata" was not only a courageous man, he was selfless, adventurous and a gentle man in the truest of form. He was instantly loved by all who had the privilege to know him. Just his presence would make you feel calm, safe, loved, and welcome.
He was a devoted family man, who loved his children, grandchildren, and all those close to him. He was a provider, an intellect, and a loving and humble man. He gave the biggest and best hugs. He loved his family and he loved life. An inspirational soul who welcomed any adventure or challenge his way. He is not one to be forgotten.
He encouraged those around him to live life to the fullest. He rode thousands of kilometres through Vietnam, drove across Africa and came within inches of lions and narrowly escaped stampeding elephants on safari. He swam with great white sharks, hiked Machu Picchu and the tallest volcanos of the Galápagos Islands. He ate nearly everything he could on nearly every continent. If he had limits, we never saw them. If he had a breaking point, we've never experienced it.
He was the best story teller, and his stories would always serve to elevate those around him. Through his actions he inspired us to learn, travel, explore the world, pushing well beyond our limits. He listened to learn, and only gave the best advice. He told each of his children that he loved us in every conversation. He was always there to encourage us, even if he didn't fully understand what it was we did. We will forever hear his voice guiding us forward.
His love, spirit, integrity, diligence, kindness, and generosity had become our standard. He would never complain and only years after our time in refugee camps did we find out how hard it was for them to take their family and escape from behind the Iron Curtain. He sacrificed so his family could have a better life. He showed us that everything was possible, and led us to the path to success. He led by example.
While he still had many adventures planned they will have to wait for another lifetime. He was the best father, our most inspirational leader, and will always live on in our memories.

"Wieczny odpoczynek racz mu dac, Panie,
a swiatlosc wiekuista niechaj mu swieci.
Niech odpoczywa w pokoju wiecznym.
Amen."

We welcome all friends and family who wish the honour the life of Andrzej Adam Walczak. Funeral and Celebration of Life to follow for Andrzej Adam Walczak on Monday, June 6 at 2:00 p.m. at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish, 4588 Roblin Blvd., Winnipeg, MB, (204) 832-1993.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jun 04, 2022