Maria Zdyb

If you entered the house of Maria Zdyb and mentioned that you were hungry, it was almost guaranteed that you would leave full and satisfied. She would be quick to whip up a family-sized serving of pierogi, koptyka, kapusta or a bowl of her healing rosół. She would be quick to offer a story to accompany the meal.

Maria (nee Wrona) was born on December 14th, 1935 in Wȩgrzynów Poland. Her strong work ethic arose from working the fields with her father and remained a core part of her beliefs throughout her life. She met her dearly departed husband Tomasz Ignacy Zdyb (d. 1999) and they married in Elbąg, Poland and departed on their “never-ending honeymoon,” emigrating to Sudbury, Ontario on June 22, 1959. When an opportunity came for Tomasz to work at Dofasco, they moved to Hamilton. Over the years, Maria maintained strong friendships with numerous Polish families and ladies both in Sudbury and in Hamilton. Maria was an active and devoted parishioner of St. Stanislaus Kostka in Hamilton for 60 years, which included her involvement with the Women’s Rosary Society.

Maria is survived by her two daughters Annie (Robert Rinne) and Krystyna (Angelo Barricelli, d.2015). Her greatest pride and joy were her four grandchildren: Adam (Ryan), Giannina (Matthew MacAuley), Ursula (Adam Mahoney) and Tomasz (Rachel). Maria taught them all the importance of keeping Polish traditions alive, having a strong faith, the importance of a good education, and how to properly pinch a pierogi.

Maria was a devoted Pra Babcia to her “munchkin” Adelaide, who loved listening to Babunia’s Polish songs. She is also survived by her other great-grandchildren, Rory and Gwen. Maria was a loving Aunt, Ciocia and Stryjenka to relatives in Sudbury, Yellowknife, Victoria, Michigan and Poland.

The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to the thorough and compassionate care of Dr. Brendan Singh, Dr. Samantha Winemaker, as well as nurses Julie and Clarissa and palliative care coordinator Melanie. Maria’s visitation will be on Wednesday, October 18th from 4 pm to 9 pm at Markey-Dermody Funeral Home, 1774 King Street East, Hamilton with Rosary service at 7:30 pm. Her funeral mass will take place on Thursday, October 19th at 10 am at St. Stanislaus Kostka Church, (at Sherman and Barton Street, Hamilton) followed by interment taking place at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery in Burlington.