META OSTROWSKI

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META OSTROWSKI September 24,1919 - April 21,2005 It is with deep sadness the family of Meta Ostrowski announces her sudden passing on Thursday afternoon, April 21, 2005 at St. Boniface General Hospital, Winnipeg at the age 85. She will be sadly missed by her only daughter Lucia Thomas and husband Gerry of Stonewall, and her two sons, Henry (Powerview) and Uve (Winnipeg). She also leaves to mourn her remaining sister, Hilde Spray in Cardiff, South Wales, England. Meta was predeceased by her husband Henryk in May of 2001, infant son Heinz in 1959, sister Gertrude in 1943 and parents, George (1944) and Katerina (1943). Meta was always a survivor in the face of adversity. She was born in Tilsit, Germany on September 24, 1919. As a young woman in the early 1930's, she took on the craft of seamstress at her parents' encouragement. She successfully completed her apprenticeship after many hours of hard work with written and practical exams. She went on to open her own sewing shop and employed many young future seamstresses that went on to learn her craft. She was always regarded as Master of her craft and for her ability to take on the most complex sewing tasks. Her attention to intricate details and perfection of her work was highly regarded by her customers and colleagues. Meta was able to sew without a pattern and develop clothing that became beautiful works of art. She sewed many wedding dresses and fur coats, created only from her own imagination. Her family and friends were the recipients of many of her creations. Her finished products were always scrutinized by her, so that no imperfection ever existed in her work. Meta experienced the atrocities of the Second World War, along with her family while in Germany from 1939 to 1945. She lost many family members, relatives and friends and spoke of the frequent fear for her life and that of others on many occasions. She experienced hunger, near starvation and the sounds of many warning sirens. The atrocities of war, destruction and loss that she experienced during the war haunted her during her lifetime. She always preached peace. Meta came to Canada from Germany in 1952 and started a new life in Powerview, MB where she raised her family and continued her seamstress trade. Meta enjoyed her homemaking and loved to participate in spirited debates on a wide range of topics. Current events and politics were some of her favourites. Family get togethers were always happy moments. She was mentor to her children and insisted on high standards, respect for others and compassion. Meta later came to Winnipeg in 1985, where she continued to reside until her passing. Meta was forever riding the Winnipeg transit system to check out the specials at Eatons or the Bay downtown. It was not at all unusual for her to visit the shopping malls every week while her health still allowed her to do so. She loved to be in the company of her children, outings for coffee or lunch, shopping, talking on the telephone and forever pursuing the elusive jackpots of the 6/49 or Super 7. She prided herself with being independent and not being a burden to anyone over the years. All she ever asked for was the gift of time and company of her family. Meta was extremely independent up until her last two years as she became confronted with numerous health issues. She was very disheartened with the changes to her health but faced her challenges bravely. She was strong willed and determined to the very last day of her life. She always remained a true survivor who overcame and continued her fierce independence. Meta will always be remembered for her strong character, determination, sense of humour, straight-forwardness and willing to give a helping hand. But for those that were closest to her she will be remembered for her kind, gentle and caring heart. She was a woman of great integrity and who spoke with pride about the accomplishment of her children. The family would like to thank: Winnipeg Fire and Paramedic service for their efforts, Victoria Lifeline and Fr. Roland Lanoie for his words of comfort during this difficult time. Very special and heartfelt thanks to Dr. Ken Vanameyde (Internal Medicine- Health Sciences Centre) for his care and concern over the last two years and to Ginny for always making her visits pleasant. She enjoyed the light hearted banter and humour that greeted her with each visit. She was always happy to visit and looked forward to her appointments. She always parted with Have a Nice Day and Don't work too hard . Thanks to Dr. Christine Peschken (Rheumatology - Health Sciences Centre) for helping Meta reacquire independence and mobility to allow her to remain at home and enjoy a satisfactory quality of life over the last two years. She became a formula one speedster with her walker. Lastly, a huge thank you to homecare. You were all the highlight of her days. She looked forward to your visits and plentiful hugs and kisses. Special mention and thanks Joanne Collins, Nida, Joan, Mary, Claire, Ruth and Debbie and nurses for your care. Your efforts allowed Meta to maintain her independence, quality of life and dignity to the very end. Many people cared for Meta over the last two years that are too numerous to mention. The family once again thanks everyone for your tireless efforts on her behalf. Funeral service will be held on Thursday, April 28 at 11:00 a.m. at Cropo Funeral Chapel, 1442 Main St., Winnipeg with Very Rev. Msgr. Wesley Cweika officiating. Interment to follow in Holy Ghost Cemetery. Eternal rest grant unto her, Lord. Rest in Peace dear Mother, Knowing that we will all meet again. We will love you and will miss you forever. A Heart of Gold Stopped Beating CROPO FUNERAL CHAPEL 586-8044

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Apr 26, 2005