It is with deep sorrow and heavy hearts we announce the peaceful passing of Wladyslawa “Juna” Nowak on November 2, 2025, at the age of 91, surrounded by her family.

To know her story is to know her strength, resilience and spirit of the life of God. She survived WWII with all its horrors, but was still able to show love, compassion, and grace. She and our father met while he was living in Canada. Their love story began through long-distance letters.

Soon after, she followed her heart, leaving Poland and joining him in Canada. She was part of the Polish Group in Geraldton and valued all the great friends she made. Her home was a gathering place for the neighbourhood, and she made every child on our street feel welcome and cared for.

She was a strong woman, working for Weldwood in Longlac for over 10 years. She delighted the community with her baking at the Geraldton Bakery and devoted herself to caring for others as a volunteer for the Canadian Red Cross.

The love she had for her grandchildren radiated from her, and you could see the pride in her eyes whenever she mentioned them. She found joy in life’s simple pleasures – baking, exploring the outdoors, foraging for mushrooms and blueberries, and caring for her garden. She was always full of energy and could be seen walking everywhere she went, bringing her lively spirit to every corner of the community.

Mama spent her last years at the John Owen Evans residence. We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude for the care and compassion she received during her time there.

She is survived by her daughter, Mariola (Lenny) of Geralton; son, Jack (Rebecca) of Winnipeg; and daughter, Mary of Smith Falls. She will be greatly missed by her grandchildren, Darron, Kara, Steven, Stephanie, Shawn, and Ryan; and all of her great-grandchildren.

She is predeceased by her husband, Edward Josef Nowak; her son, Edward Mariuz Nowak; and her brothers and sisters in Poland.

Online condolences may be made through www.nwfainc.com