Obituary of CELINA GORNIK

CELINA GORNIK MAY 22, 1925-JANUARY 1, 2015 Celina Helena Cecylia Gornik (nee Siudy), our beloved mother, departed this Earth suddenly with little warning, at age 89, leaving us with profound sorrow, and hearts filled with a devastating loss. She took with her a spirit of immense generosity and kindness toward her family, friends, and numerous charities. Inheriting a heart of gold from her mother, her devotion and love to her family was paramount throughout her life. Born in Pilica, Poland, to Józef and Joanna Siudy, Celina was a bright child, with a reverence for learning. At age 14 she was deported to Germany in the Nazi forced labour movement, immigrating to Canada in 1947 at age 22. In 1951, Celina married Albin having three daughters. Despite a childhood of tumultuous happenings and war, Celina had strong aspirations and optimism for the future. She embraced self education, immersing herself in the Canadian culture and learning English fluently. Celina was a long time member of the Catholic Woman's League of Canada. Employed as an LPN at St. Boniface and Misericordia Hospitals, and well regarded in the nursing field, she later became a Nurse's Aide for West Park Manor. She volunteered with Community Venture, a Salvation Army program for adults with intellectual disabilities. Celina was tenacious and ambitious, with a loving and mercurial nature. Her children were her greatest treasures. Celina is predeceased by her parents Joanna and Józef, beloved daughter Terry, husband Albin, and brother Stanley. Celina will be lovingly remembered and missed by daughters, Samantha ( Gary), Grace (Michael), brothers Wlodek (Hela), Lucjan (Frania), special niece Joanne (Brad), nieces Betty, Halina (Marek), daughter Eva, Elizabeth (George), nephew Gerald (Cathey), sister-in-law Theresa, and family in Poland. A Memorial Mass celebrating Celina's life will be held at Holy Ghost Church. Details will be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to a charity of one's choice. Mom, God has you in his keeping, we have you in our hearts.