Obituary of Helena Nieumierzycki

“Nasza Kochana Mama i Babcia” – of Calgary, departed on her final journey on Sunday, June 28, 2009 at the age of 80 years young, with her family by her side. She was fiercely independent, loved to travel, was an avid reader, adored flowers – in particular roses, and enjoyed attending a variety of cultural events. Helena’s family was very important to her and one of her greatest loves was her granddaughter, Monika, with whom she spent many joyful years creating special memories. Helena was born in Poland, where she worked as an accountant prior to immigrating to Canada with her husband and children in 1960. From the beginning, she was an active member of the Polish community in Calgary devoting much time and energy to numerous organizations. Over the years she wrote articles for the local Polish Bulletin and Polish newspapers, “Czas” and “Związkowiec”; taught in the Polish language school from 1964 – 1972; and was Treasurer/Manager of P.C.A. Savings & Credit Union from 1968 – 2006. Since 1970 she was an active volunteer in Our Lady Queen of Peace Polish Parish, in particular with the Finance Committee where she served as Chairperson since 1987. Helena was deeply religious and her faith always sustained her during the most challenging times of her life. Although she received numerous acknowledgements in recognition of her service to the Polish Community, the most meaningful of these was the Apostolic Blessing she received in 1996. She also treasured the two occasions on which she was able to meet Pope John Paul II. Helena is survived by daughters Grazyna (Brian) and Danusia; granddaughter Monika; sisters Celina and Irena of Poland; as well as extended family in Canada, Europe and Australia. She was predeceased by her beloved husband Marian; and brothers, Leon and Zygmunt. Relatives and friends are invited to Prayers and Tributes at McINNIS & HOLLOWAY’S Chapel of the Bells (2720 Centre Street North) on Wednesday, July 08, 2009 at 8:00 p.m. Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Our Lady Queen of Peace Polish Catholic Church (2111 Uxbridge Drive N.W.) on Thursday, July 09 at 10:30 a.m. Graveside Service to follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery. Condolences may be forwarded through www.mcinnisandholloway.com. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the charity of your choice. A special thank you to the Palliative Home Care Team for their compassionate care these past months. In living memory of Helena Nieumierzycki, a tree will be planted at Fish Creek Provincial Park by McINNIS & HOLLOWAY FUNERAL HOMES, Chapel of the Bells, 2720 CENTRE STREET NORTH Telephone: (403) 276-2296.