WINICJUSZ ZYGMUNT NAWROCKI

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WINICJUSZ ZYGMUNT NAWROCKI Having battled a chronic illness for a number of years, Winicjusz Zygmunt Nawrocki passed away peacefully Saturday, April 13, 2002, at Seven Oaks General Hospital. In his 89th year of life, Winicjusz had faced health problems and physical infirmities with the same courage, indomitable spirit, and deeply rooted faith that had sustained him through all his major life changing experiences, especially those imposed by external factors. His family centered life will be remembered fondly and his passing is mourned by his wife and close companion of over 54 years, Alina; children, Krystyna (Bogumil), Tadeusz, Stefan (Janice) grandchildren Barbara and Marek. Born in Sochocin, Poland, as a young man Winicjusz served in the Polish Armed Forces. He stood in the defence of Warsaw at the outbreak of the Second World War, was taken prisoner of war to Germany, where he met Alina who became his post war bride. He immigrated to Canada, settled in Winnipeg to prepare for the arrival of his wife and newborn daughter. His work path eventually led to Canadian Pacific Railway where, nicknamed "Leo", he was part of a European contingent of co-workers and a hard working, loyal employee for several decades until his retirement. Holy Ghost Roman Catholic Church became the spiritual home. Along the way he joined St. John Cantius Fraternal Aid Society and the Royal Canadian Legion: Winnipeg Polish Canadian Branch 246. He was committed to family, church and community relationships and dedicated his energy and time to raising his children (then grandchildren through elementary school), helping and supporting his church community and the fraternal organizations, especially St. John Cantius Fraternal Aid Society. He relished gardening, specializing in tomatoes and beans, and loved to go blueberry and mushroom picking. The family is grateful to Timmalee at provincial Home Care Services, who in a caring and professional manner coordinated the in-home support services to Winicjusz and his wife for several years, to Lori his V.O.N. nurse, and to the staff of Seven Oaks General Hospital 4th floor Geriatric Services for their care of Winicjusz during his respite stays there. Prayers will be offered at Cropo Funeral Chapel, 1442 Main St. on Friday, April 19 at 8:00 p.m. Funeral service with Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Holy Ghost Roman Catholic Church, 341 Selkirk Ave. on Saturday, April 20 at 9:30 a.m. followed by interment at Holy Ghost Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations in Winicjuszs name may be made to a charity of choice. Wieczny Odpoczynek Racz Mu Dac Panie! CROPO FUNERAL CHAPEL 586-8044

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Apr 18, 2002