MALWINA KUREK
1924 - 2014
Malwina Kurek, beloved wife of the late Jan Kurek, passed away peacefully in Taber on Tuesday, October 14, 2014 at the age of 90 years.
Relatives and friends were invited to Prayers at St. Augustine’s Catholic Church, 5009 - 48 Avenue, Taber on Thursday, October 16, 2014 at 7:00 P.M.
The Funeral Mass was celebrated at St. Augustine’s Catholic Church, 5009 - 48 Avenue, Taber on Friday, October 17, 2014 at 11:00 A.M. with Reverend Vincent TuanHa, Celebrant. Burial followed at the Taber Memorial Garden.
Malwina is survived by her sons Joe (Cindy) Kurek of Vauxhall and Stan (Debbie) Kurek of Hays; five grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren Lisa Florendine of Lethbridge and her children Brooke and Chase, Stan Kurek of Grande Prairie and his children Bailey and Chevy, Carrie Kurek of Grande Prairie, Jamie (Chad) Gow of Medicine Hat and their children Layne and Trae, Kim (Steve) Dunsmore of Enchant and their children Pierce, Tyra and Jadyn.
She was predeceased by her loving husband Jan, in 1995.
Malwina was born in the Ukraine on June 29, 1924. Her life changed drastically when the Second World War erupted. Although this was a challenging time, Malwina was fortunate to meet the love of her life, Jan. It was love at first sight! They were blessed with two sons and together they bravely made the daunting journey to Canada. They eventually settled in Taber where they worked hard and raised their family. Shortly after Jan's passing, she took on the lofty challenge of writing her memoirs. This process reminded her of their lives together and provided her a sense of healing. She was able to remain in the family home until she was eighty.
Malwina took pride in being able to provide for her family and friends by cooking, sewing, crocheting and gardening, just to name a few of her many talents. Her flower and vegetable gardens were also a source of pride and provided many meals made from her efforts. Malwina enjoyed the simple things life had to offer including cooking and sharing a meal with family and friends, sitting by the lake watching Jan fish and occasionally getting dressed up to go dancing. She never passed up an opportunity to educate us on the importance of embracing family and having a strong work ethic. We will always remember and cherish the sense of home she provided with the smell of homemade bread in the oven, the crispness of freshly starched sheets, and a warm greeting offering to feed you whether you were hungry or not.
The last few years of Malwina's life were enhanced by the numerous health care professionals and "sweethearts" who provided support and care that was beyond compare. The family would like to send a special thank you to the employees of Linden View who cared for Malwina with patience and compassion.
If friends so desire, memorial tributes in Malwina’s name may be made directly to a charity of one’s choice.