May 27, 1926 - October 5, 2021
Krystyna was born and lived in Lwow, Poland until the outbreak of WW2, and then her whole life changed. At the age of thirteen she had lost her home, her father in the Katyn massacre, her grandfather in Auschwitz, and was deported with her mother and sister to a Siberian labour camp where they suffered incredible hardships for 2 years.
Upon release, they made their way through the Middle East as part of the Polish Women’s Auxiliary Corps where Krystyna was trained, and worked as a nurse tending to the sick and wounded in the Polish Red Cross outposts.
In 1943 she landed in Edinburgh, Scotland where she met and married the love of her life, a Polish Officer named Boleslaw Zacios.
In 1954 the family set sail for Canada, and so began a new journey.
Krystyna embraced all of her pursuits with passion and grace. She loved to create beautiful spaces in her home and garden, to entertain, and to play bridge. She was always prepared for the unexpected guest to arrive.
She was happiest when surrounded by friends and family, and whenever they gathered there was always a bounty of food, music, and laughter. She proudly maintained Polish customs and holiday traditions creating everlasting memories, whether it was in Montreal, Alexandria, or Naples Florida.
Predeceased by her husband Boleslaw (2014), she will be deeply missed by her daughters, Yvonne, Barbara, Eva (Neil), beloved granddaughter Alexandra, cherished friend John, niece and nephews.
Due to Covid, the family will hold a private celebration of Krystyna’s life.
Memorial donations may be made to the Heart and Stroke Foundation.