Nowak, Wanda

In Loving Memory of Wanda Nowak (nee Malek).

Our Mom left us on Oct 4, 2024.  At the age of 90 she passed on peacefully. She was the loving wife of the late Edward (Eddy) Joseph Nowak. Devoted mother to Stephen (Debbie), Michael (Carole) and Monika (Dean). Proud grandmother (Babci) to Jason, Robin (Susan), and Hillorie (Nick). And great grandmother to Charlotte.

Born on May 6, 1934, in Ottawa, ON she was the first child born to Mary and John Malek.  She was big sister to her younger brothers John, Walter, and Stephen.  She took her role as “big sister” very seriously as demonstrated by her caring way.  Wanda was the last surviving member of her siblings. Wanda and her siblings were raised in Montreal, QC; specifically in the districts known as “The Point” and Ville Emard.

In 1955, unbeknownst to her at the time, she caught the eye of a young man, and soon after Wanda met this member of her Polish community, her soon to be husband Eddy.  They married on Aug 31, 1957, in Montreal, QC. (Holy Trinity Church) and were married for a total of 50 years.  Wanda devoted her life to her family.

Most of her life Wanda continued to raise her family in Ville Emard.  If you ever followed her you would be amazed at how she would walk along Monk Blvd and have to stop every few minutes to say Hi to the person shouting “Hi Wanda”.  For a treat she could be found enjoying a snack in her favourite stops along the way: Nino’s, DiLallo’s, or Vics.

Wanda’s love of children extended beyond her immediate family. You could tell by the way children raced to be the fortunate one to hold her hand as she volunteered to be a chaperone for St John Bosco elementary school field trips, or as a lunch room monitor for elementary students at Roslyn elementary in Westmount. They couldn’t help but to gravitate to her genuine warmth and kindness. As most people did.

Wanda lived her life quietly but was a centering figure in all she did. Her sense of humour and wit were second to none and those close enough to have experienced it will miss it.  She loved being around people and made friends easily.  Her wisdom, at times was surprising, but was always presented in a quiet and thoughtful manner.  She observed all but never judged, just accepted.  That is something the world will miss.

Wanda was a devout Catholic with strong faith. She lived for her family and took joy in their happiness and success.  Her support was always present, whether the individual needing that motherly support was near or far. She would always present a welcome smile that emitted warmth.  Wanda lives on in each of her children and their memories.

Wanda requested a simple, quiet service at the place of her baptism, communion, and marriage; Holy Trinity Church in Montreal, QC (Point-St.-Charles, 1660 Rue Centre).  It has been scheduled for May 6, 2025  at 11:00 AM (on what would have been her 91^st birthday).  A reception will follow within the church hall.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made in her name to the Alzheimer’s Society or The Heart and Stroke Foundation.

Wanda and Eddy’s ashes will be interned in Montreal at a private ceremony.

If you are reading this please join her children in acknowledging her outstanding life by looking way up in the sky, say a prayer, give a nod, wink, smile, thumbs up….or even do all at once in her honour to let her know she will be missed but never forgotten.  It would be most appreciated.