Aldona Marian Willemsen

July 4, 1933 - August 26, 2026

The Moon has risen…

In deep sorrow, the family of Aldona Willemsen (née Bulzgis) announces her peaceful passing at home, in Toronto on August 26, 2026. The beloved and adored wife of Richard; and revered mother of Susan and Cynthia, Aldona (aka Moon, to loved ones) was predeceased by parents, Vytautus (Victor) and Emily Bulzgis; and adored younger brothers, Adolfus (Addie) and Anset (Andy). She leaves sister-in-law, Glenda Urquhart Bulzgis; nieces and

nephews, Patrick (deceased) and Jennifer, Samantha (Paul) and Lucas, Victor (Dana), and Gustav Bulzgis; in addition to relatives in the US, Lithuania, and friends and acquaintances around the globe. Those who had the opportunity to meet Aldona instantly fell in love with her.

Aldona immigrated to Canada with her family from Lithuania in 1939, fleeing horrors of war to begin a new life for which she was eternally grateful. An industrious lifetime of commitment, hard work, acquiring skills, language and navigating a new culture with her family, she learned to appreciate beauty and elegance and the finer things in life with a deep and ongoing gratitude. She met the love of her life, Richard, while working at his family’s reinsurance business in Toronto; they married in 1958 and began a life and

family. She volunteered at the Cradleship Creche while supporting Richard in his role in the Consular Corps and stood by his side throughout his career. She was remarkably capable, a devoted wife, charming partner, and an unparalleled mother. Aldona truly defined herself — and with her elegance, grace, charm and style, her inherent skill at entertaining, making people feel welcome and at home and her playful sense of humour, she adopted many

who adored her along her way. She and Richard loved to travel and experience the world at every opportunity, visiting well over one hundred countries while making lasting friends throughout. The family river cruises were her favourite. She was passionate about the arts, culture, and music and was a patron of the Canadian Opera Company, National Ballet of Canada, Toronto Symphony,

Toronto Operetta, the Royal Alexandra Theatre and more, experiences she graciously shared with her children. She adored sports and dancing, and had great fun entertaining, hosting swims, tennis matches, barbecues and legendary “gourmet club” dinner parties at the family home on The Bridle Path.

She laughed and loved her ladies’ badminton and tennis, her workouts, and swims at The Granite Club. She learned to golf with Richard at York Downs Golf Club, there enjoying many family dinners. Her love of style and fashion meant each day was an excuse to dress up; she was renowned for her colour coordinated and accessorized looks. She turned heads everywhere she went. Moon was memorable. We will not forget her.

Special thanks to her caregiver, the “amazing” Grace Millington, and the team at the Temmy Latner Centre. At Aldona’s request, cremation has taken place. A celebration of life will be announced later. In her memory, have “a flirtation,” raise a glass and call or hug a loved one.

And she will always carry on

Something is lost,

but something is found

They will keep on

speaking her name

Some things change;

some stay the same

(Hymn to Her, M. Keene)