Obituary of John Jan Kraska

August 14, 1928 - Stanislawowska, Poland

October 27, 2023 - Calgary, Alberta

Janek “John” Kraska passed away peacefully on October 27, 2023, at the age of 95, surrounded by his family. Born on August 14, 1928, Janek lived a very full and vibrant life from beginning to end and touched the lives of everyone he met along the way. After many years of struggles as a child of war, he was determined to survive and create a life of his own. 

In England, he met and married Jadwiga, his one true love of 68 years. They moved to Calgary where he worked for Canadian Pacific Railway and numerous side jobs. He enjoyed carpentry, camping, family gatherings and dancing at the Polish Hall.  He was proud to be Polish, became President of the Combatants Association for 18 years, served on numerous committees, was a member of Knights of Columbus and worked hard all his life, even after retirement. A great husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.

Janek and his wife often hosted feasts at their home which was enjoyed by so many. Janek is survived by his adoring wife Jadwiga, his children Teresa (Keith Turner), Richard Kraska, Caroline (Pat Bomford), son-in-law Brian St. Germain, twelve grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.  He was predeceased by his daughter Dorothy St. Germain, his first grandson Andrew Turner, his sister Stefie Zygadlo, (Walter), and his niece Krystina Lorne.

A special thank you to Lukasz Zakiewicz and his team, and Age Care Glenmore Pumphill Staff.

If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made directly to The Alzheimer Society of Alberta and the Northwest Territories, Administrative Office, 10531 Kingsway Avenue, Edmonton AB T5H 4K1.  Tel: (1-866) 950-5465, www.alzheimer.ab.ca .

Relatives and friends are invited to Prayers and Tributes at Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Church (2111 Uxbridge Drive NW, Calgary, AB) on Sunday, November 5, 2023, at 6:00 p.m.

Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Church (2111 Uxbridge Drive NW, Calgary, AB) on Monday, November 6, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. Reception to follow in the Church Hall. Graveside Service to follow at Queen’s Park Cemetery. Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed here.

In living memory of John Kraska, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Heritage, 1708 – 16th Avenue NW, Calgary, AB, T2M 0L7, Telephone: 403-243-8200.