Maria Oldak-Matusiak

Our Mother passed away peacefully in her sleep, at the age of 86, at Élisabeth Bruyère Hospital on Wednesday evening.

Maria was an exuberant, fashionable, and classy lady. She greatly enjoyed travelling and getting to know new places, countries, and people. She lived on 2 continents, in 3 countries, Canada, Poland and Bulgaria, and spoke 5 languages.

She loved music, art, and reading, especially biographies, historical books, and novels. With her excellent and detailed memory, Maria revelled in telling colourful stories about her life, travel adventures, and interests. With that same passion, for many years, she guided Warsaw tours and enjoyed working for travel agency and international airlines in Poland.

Maria had a great interest in fashion and world cuisine, loved cooking, and experimenting with different tastes and culinary presentations. She dreamed about opening her own small bistro in Ottawa and had an enormous love for flowers. Maria enjoyed hosting amazing and unforgettable celebrations and parties for family and friends.

One of the greatest joys of our Mother's life was interacting with people and helping others. She was a member of Women's League organization in Poland, aiding women in need and later supporting Polish and Bulgarian communities in Ottawa. While working at the Ottawa Civic Hospital until retirement, Mom was always very empathetic and exceeding expectations when assisting patients.

Maria leaves behind two children, two grandchildren, and twin great-grandchildren. She will always be remembered and greatly missed by her entire family and those close to her.