Garszczal: Franciszka (Frances), August 2, 1923 – March 1, 2018

Frances was born August 2, 1923, to parents Stanley and Magdalena Mikosz. She died peacefully at the Oyen Extended Care Facility March 1, 2018, at the age of 94.

She grew up in Kopanki, Poland with siblings Mary, Karl, John and Bruno.

Frances married John Garszczal in 1943 and in the years that followed they were blessed with five children: Sophie, Krystyna, Richard, Jimmy and Bruno.

In 1950 Frances, John, and their three oldest children came to Canada from Uganda, Africa to live in New Brigden. After residing in New Brigden for seven years they made the move to Oyen. Frances was very busy and over the years she held positions as a caretaker in both New Brigden and Assumption Schools as well as cleaning, cooking and doing laundry at the Oyen Hospital. Frances also did volunteer work for the Oyen C.W.L. and Legion.

Frances had many talents, as well as being a great seamstress, gardener, baker, and cook. She knew seven languages—Polish, Russian, Swahili and Ukranian to name a few. Frances travelled through many different places including Africa, England, and the United States. In her spare time, she enjoyed crocheting, listening to music, and spending time with her children, 10 grandchildren, 8 great grandchildren, and one great-great-grandson.

In 2010 Frances moved from her home in Oyen to the Oyen Lodge where she lived for two great years before moving to the Auxiliary in 2012 where her storytelling skills and humour were enjoyed by all.

Frances was predeceased by her father Stanley; mother Magdalena; husband John; brothers Karl, John and Bruno; sister Mary; children Krystyna Scott, James, and Bruno; and son-in-law Nick Huzar.

Frances is survived by her daughter Sophie Huzar and son Richard (Diane) Garsczcal of New Jersey.

Mass of Christian Burial was held March 10 at the Sacred Heart Roman Catholic Church in Oyen. Officiating clergy was Rev. Newton Rodrigues. Megan McBain was the organist and Rhonda Gramblicka was the reader. Special music was You Are My Sunshine by Jack and Robert Shields.

Pallbearers were grandchildren Dwayne Huzar, Nathan Huzar, Kyle Gramblicka, Zachary Gramblicka, Michael Garszczal, and Morgan Huzar. Honorary pallbearers were Kasia Garszczal and Terri-Ann Garszczal.

Following the funeral service family and friends were invited to a luncheon hosted by the Sacred Heart Ladies in the Assumption School Gym.

MacLean’s Funeral Home of Oyen in care of arrangements.