Obituary of Judith Anne Zawacki

ZAWACKI, Judith Anne

August 30, 1943 – June 2, 2024

On Sunday, June 2, 2024, our beloved Judy passed away with her daughters by her side. She was predeceased by her parents (Adam and Margaret Bischoff).

Left to cherish her memory are her three daughters: Carla Zawacki (Martin Turcotte), Marisa Zawacki (Jonathan Shipley), Alia Zawacki (Michael Weaver), and her four grandchildren: Olivia and Max Turcotte, Noah and Kaiya Weaver.

She is lovingly remembered by her four younger brothers: Bob (Louise), Paul, Alan and Wayne (Colette), and 11 nieces and nephews. She was known as the ‘big sister’, loyal friend and the cornerstone of the family.

Judy was born in Victoria, British Columbia. Being born on the West Coast likely inspired her love for the ocean, which she found so calming and peaceful. She was the daughter of an army veteran and a schoolteacher, who eventually returned to the Prairies after the war. Judy grew up on the farm in Mendham, then Moose Jaw, and lastly, Regina. She took after her mother (Margie B) and became a teacher for 30+ years. Judy devoted herself to teaching grades 1-3 and helping children to learn how to read.

Reading was a passion throughout her life and her beloved book club was a highlight right until the end. 

Post-retirement, Judy leaned into her creative passions, including jewellery making, which she excelled at and sold her pieces at various local art galleries.

She loved art and travel, which brought her to many corners of the world – from Italy to Portugal, Montenegro, France, England and Greece.

Her grandchildren were the great joy of her life. They blossomed in the warmth of Grandma ‘Tutti’s’ love and will forever cherish the many fond memories – reading books, doing LEGO and puzzles, making art and crafts, playing Uno (and ‘pontradility’), sleep overs, ‘leg’ salad sandwiches, swimming at her pool on Westfield, Insta reels, her fun fashion sense, playing piano – and most of all, the warm cuddles and embraces.

Our mom and grandma’s greatest qualities were her strength, intelligence, curiosity, kindness, ability to listen, encourage, comfort, and love. She was always there for us, no matter what. She was our mentor and best friend. We love and miss you.

Special thanks to the nurses at the William Booth Hospice for mom’s care in her final days.

A celebration of life will follow in the coming months.