Virginia Mary Walzak

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, Virginia, who died peacefully at home surrounded by her family on February 27, after a short and courageous battle with cancer. Born and raised in Glace Bay, Nova Scotia, it was there that she met and married the love of her life, Albert. Shortly after marrying, they moved to Halifax where they enjoyed fifty-five wonderful, loving, and adventurous years together.

Mom had a thirty-year career with the Nova Scotia Department of Community Services and enjoyed her latter years working at the Senior Citizens-Secretariat. Although she was a dedicated employee, this did not define who she was. Rather, it was her role as mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother (fondly referred to as “Nanny Papa”), that brought her the most joy.

Mom will be remembered for her renowned baking skills. Any visitor to her home never left empty-handed. It was common to be provided a freshly baked cinnamon loaf, or a dozen piping hot rolls, or, if time did not permit, a few chocolate bars tucked into your pocket. From wedding cakes to the world’s best pies, those kitchen aromas will live with us forever. Lifelong happy memories also remain with us at the family cottage at Piggott Lake. Here friends and family would gather to share love, laughter, and never-ending feasts. There was always an extra seat at the table for last minute guests, especially new immigrant families and her many devoted friends.

Mom was the ultimate giver to all. Quietly and compassionately, she touched the lives of many, especially the marginalized or those in need. Although recognition was never sought, in 2007, she and Dad were awarded the Elizabeth Ann Seton Award for service to others. Time stood still when you were in her presence and the twinkle in her eye was a sign that you were the only person who mattered in that moment. She made the world a better place by the goodwill and love she generously provided to others. Mom was truly blessed with a wonderful and richly storied life which we will cherish forever, flavoured with her staunch Cape Breton determination and humour. She travelled abroad in her later years with family and friends sharing with us her many wonderful adventures and memories.

Mom was a woman of devout faith. Her commitment to Saint Benedict Parish in Halifax was inspirational. As lector, eucharistic minister, and parishioner, she was widely known and loved in the church community as a genuine supporter to all.

Mom was predeceased by her parents, Christina and George Bowes, siblings Christina and Dan Fraser, and her husband and life partner, Al. Mom is survived by her children, Gina (Mark Young), Kelly (Dave Smith), Taya (Bob Shields), and Albert “Buddy” (Lisa Haydon), her grandchildren Mitchell, Meagan, Stephanie, Brian, Jeff, Christina, Amy, and Maryn, and her great grandchildren Owen, Pia, and Jude. Mom is also survived by many extended family members of the Fraser and Walzak families.

Visitation will be held from 6-8 p.m. on Wednesday, March 8, at J.A. Snow Funeral Home, 339 Lacewood Dr, Halifax. A funeral mass will be held on Thursday March 9, at 12:15 p.m. at Saint Benedict Church, 45 Radcliffe Dr., Halifax. To place an online condolence, please visit: www.jasnowfuneralhome.com. In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Virginia may be made to the Halifax West Ecumenical Food Bank (canadahelps.org) or to the Society of St. Vincent de Paul (Saint Benedict Chapter, Halifax).

Virginia’s family extends a sincere thank you to the QEII Palliative Care Team, the VON nursing staff and her long-time family physician and friend, Dr. Charlotte Calnen. We also send loving appreciation to Gina and Mark for leading the way, taking care of Mom over the last two years prior to her recent illness. Their commitment and ongoing care were an inspiration and the leading force in fulfilling Mom’s wish to remain at home these past weeks surrounded by her family. She will be forever missed and loved by all.