Zofia Stadnyk

Zofia, affectionately known as Sonia to her family and friends, was born in beautiful Kraków, Poland, where she spent her early years. She completed high school and continued her higher education in surveying engineering. Her career began with a large institution where she worked designing plans and maps. After marrying Wiesław Woliński, she became involved in the family business producing designer leather handbags.

In 1986, Zofia and her family immigrated to Canada. Zofia was ambitious and had a lifelong passion for learning. After arriving in Canada, she began by studying English and continued her education through professional programs at the University of Saskatchewan and Saskatchewan Polytechnic. She went on to build a career as an applied science technologist and worked for a few engineering companies as well as the University of Saskatchewan.

In 1993, she married John Stadnyk. They shared a happy marriage and many common interests, particularly music and travel. Zofia played the accordion, while John played the violin. They travelled widely, from Europe to Hawaii but also enjoyed vacationing in Saskatchewan. Zofia loved visiting Moose Jaw, and they enjoyed relaxing rounds of golf together. Her love of music led her to join the Magic City Chorus and the U of S Chorus, where she performed several times alongside the Saskatoon Symphony Orchestra.

Zofia also had a very artistic spirit and loved exploring various forms of art, including brass embossing, stained glass, and polymer art. Her creativity led her to establish Arts and Crafts by Zofia, where she showcased and sold unique handmade creations.

Above all, Zofia was an exceptionally loving and caring person, especially toward those closest to her. She was immensely proud of her son, Przemek, and his academic and professional achievements. She was always his biggest supporter, celebrating his successes and encouraging him in everything he pursued.

She shared a special bond with her granddaughter, Izabella, and played an important role in her upbringing, introducing her to books, art and culture. They spent many happy hours visiting the library and reading together. They also enjoyed creative projects, from making art to simply baking cookies.

Caring for others was perhaps Zofia’s most defining quality. She was always looking out for those she loved, making sure they had everything they needed and were safe, healthy, and well.

Zofia is lovingly remembered by her son Przemek Allan Woliński; her granddaughter Izabella Woliński; Izabella's mother Marcia Kenjiro; her brother Dylan Cardenas; her sister Krystyna

Podgórska; her nephew Wiktor Freifeld and his family; her cousin Swietlana Karatajewa; and many dear friends in Canada, Poland and around the world.

She was predeceased by her beloved husband, John Stadnyk, and her parents, Henryk and Maria Syguła.

Mom, we love you.