Judith Zelazny

January 17, 2021

I remember how Mom used to love 💕 going out to get her hair cut and she always made a point of paying for it herself. I wasn’t allowed to treat her.

This picture is one of those memorable times of those excursions. Mom looks amazing!

Judith Zelazny

January 17, 2021

I remember celebrating Mother’s Day with my Mom. It was a special occasion! I’ve always told my boys that Mothers Day falls on the second Sunday in May and never forget that lol.

It was an amazing day to spend with my boys and daughter in laws and especially my Mom

This picture I will cherish forever. Thanks Mom for being such an amazing lady. Love you and miss you more each passing day ❤️

Debbie Marsh

January 17, 2021

I remember when during one of our visits with Oma Mary, that Elijah and Oma started playing with each other. They did this all the time.

The picture I chose was when Oma Mary started to play with Elijah while I was trying to get Elijah to finish his lunch. That’s what Omas are for LOL.

Love and miss you Oma Mary. Love Elijah and Haily-Anne

Trevor Zelazny

January 17, 2021

I remember when Oma used to come to the Nike store in Kitchener to visit me while I was working.

The picture I chose was during one of those times. Love and miss you Opa and Oma.

Marci Philippi

January 17, 2021

I remember Oma Snoei coming to the Phillipi’s Christmas party.

Oma was so happy and excited when we started throwing papernotjes after supper a tradition that the Philippi’s have kept up for years. Oma joined right in with us and had such a great time.

The picture I chose was of Oma holding a Santa Claus that she got attached to at our house. We love and miss you Oma💜

Hannah Borland

January 17, 2021

I remember visiting Oma in Plattsville at my Aunt Judi and Uncle Ken’s home.

Oma just loved puppies and the picture I chose is of Oma and I with Dova my sister Laura’s puppy. We had a great day playing with the puppy. Thanks for the memory Oma. Love you and miss you very much! ❤️

Judith Zelazny

January 16, 2021

I remember one New Years Day Eve celebrating with Mom. We had a blast together!

Here’s to a blessed 2021 year. And Dad, Mom and David here’s to a life in heaven free of pain, tears, sorrow, etc.

Zelazny out!

Judith Zelazny

January 16, 2021

I remember hosting Christmas at our house in Kitchener for the first time since we had moved there.

Thank you Dad and Mom for showing us what true love is..........unconditionally. Ken and I are blessed to have Katie, Jessica and Kendall as part of the Zelazny family.

This picture shows how happy our parents were together.

And as Dad always said, “Keep smiling”

Judith Zelazny

January 16, 2021

I remember growing up and until Moms passing that she always dressed up to the nines. Dad spoiled the love of his life all the time with jewelry, cruises on Holland America, RVing to Alaska and Florida, trips to Holland, Africa, home in Florida, Senior Bus Tours, etc.

This picture was taken after one of the many activities at Granite Landing as a tribute to the Queen. I just love this pic!!

Judith Zelazny

January 16, 2021

I remember when Mom had her first manicure and pedicure. Mom was so enamored throughout the entire process. Mom told me that she’s never had this done before in her entire life. I smiled................
When Mom moved into her residence at Granite Landing this was one of the many interactive activities offered within the Memory Care Community.
In this picture Mom is showing off her new nails as well as the craft she had just made. Priceless!

Judith Zelazny

January 16, 2021

Remembering Dad and Moms humbleness and generosity. Unbeknownst to all of us, Dad and Mom were very involved in the W.O.W. (Working for Orphans & Widows) projects orchestrated through Visionledd. From adopting children in Africa, financially supporting a pediatric/maternity hospital in Salalira in Uganda and funding the “Snoei Community Centre” that is located within the small thriving community of Shamabanse, Zambia.
Donations to the Church was always Dad and Moms priority and African projects were always on their radar.
Through Moms continuing donations, after Dad had passed, we had the pleasure of meeting up with Eric Lefebvre. Eric travelled to Africa , once a year, and worked at the hospital in Salalira. Eric sent us updates and photos of the hospital as often as he could. Eric shared with me that our Dad wept when he had to leave Africa because Dad wanted to stay. The children were so happy with nothing and wanted for nothing.
This picture was one of the the first times I had the pleasure of meeting Eric. He’s an amazing friend of the family and Mom held him dear to her heart.

Judith Zelazny

January 16, 2021

I remember how much Mom loved to bake. Every weekend we would make something delicious. Whether it was boeterkook, bake and decorate a cake for Fathers Day or someone’s birthday, treats for Dutch Heritage Day at Granite Landing, make decorated candy apples and/or carrot muffins at Granite, and homemade tomato soup for Church gatherings.
My favorite picture is of Mom making meatballs. Talk about speed LOL. Mom could shape and roll that ground beef quicker than the speed of light. I couldn’t believe my eyes. Thanks Mom for teaching me all your tricks in the kitchen!

Judith Zelazny

January 16, 2021

I remember Christmas’s with Mom the most festive time of the year. We had so much fun decorating her room with all kinds of Christmas decorations. Mom would sit there in her chair knitting and watch and/or delegate where to put what. The one year Mom made a gingerbread house with the other ladies who lived at Granite Landing, to add to her Christmas collection. Mom had so much fun decorating her gingerbread house.
Every Christmas when possible we would also get together with Moms best friends, cousins and sister-in-laws in the Niagara region. We would meet everyone at Swiss Chalet or the Mandarin in St. Catharines. Everyone had a blast! I miss those times..............
My favorite picture of Mom at Christmas time was when we went to the Dollar Store to pick up some Christmas cards. We found a Santa hat with an attached beard and I placed it on Moms head. We laughed and laughed .......... good times!

Judith Zelazny

January 15, 2021

I remember when Moms love for dogs became quite evident. We never had dogs growing up but Mom adored Denver, Lily and Ollie, her great grand puppies. Denver would lay beside Mom on the carpet like he was protecting her from danger

My favorite picture is of Mom sneaking food to Denver, my English lab. Mom didn’t think I was watching as you can tell by the pic.

Judith Zelazny

January 15, 2021

I remember all the volunteer work Mom continued to do even after Dad passed away. Mom would sew diapers for the Warehouse of Hope which in turn the diapers would be shipped to Africa, Patchwork Ladies sewing quilt patches for Africa, Bible School working in the kitchen, Young Mother’s baby bottle drive and baby clothes donations, Camp Shalom in the kitchen and most of all the Shoebox donations.
My favorite picture is of Mom displaying her Shoebox donations. Mom was a very humble lady who gave from the heart. Love you!!

Judith Zelazny

January 15, 2021

I remember how Mom loved to volunteer at the Nursery in the Church every 4th Sunday with me. Mom loved to hold the babies snd I looked after the toddlers. Mom enjoyed going to the Emmanuel Reformed church in Woodstock because of the children and of course Pastor Pete. Most families there had at least 4-5 children each. It was the new Dutch and old Dutch combined.
My favorite picture is of Mom holding onto Haily-Ann sitting on her lap. Oma Mary loved her grandchildren!

Judith Zelazny

January 15, 2021

I remember how Mom adored her stuffed animals and dolls. Mom bought some of these old fashioned dolls at the Warehouse of Hope garage sale to add to her collection. Everywhere we went, Mom would find something to add to her collection. Some people didn’t understand why she collected these items but it made her so happy and less lonely.
My favorite memory is when we went to the Craft Show and Sale at Emmanuel Reformed Church in Woodstock. Mom spotted a crocheted panda bear snd just had to have it. The look on her face is priceless!

Judith Zelazny

January 15, 2021

I remember when my son Kyle and his fiancé Jessica came home to Ontario for a visit back in May 2017. They always made sure to include a visit to Omas place in Cambridge. In this picture, Mom is wearing the same blue dress she had picked out to wear to their wedding on September 21, 2018.

Mom looked so good in blue; matches her eyes.

Judith Zelazny

January 15, 2021

I remember Mom and Dads love for flowers. Loved them so much that Dad started his own greenhouses called Bayview Flowers in Jordan Station. Mom and Dad then retired at age 55 and Dad continued with his passion in gardening. Oh what gardens they had! Mom weeded and Dad planted. What a team!

One of Moms favorite flowers was begonias This picture is with my sister Karen and Mom enjoying the flowers at Granite Landing. It was a beautiful day!

Judith Zelazny

January 15, 2021

I remember all the crafts Mom and I did together. What a blast we had! We made Easter bunnies out of white hand towels, tie dye scarves, wool scarves using just our fingers, jewelry, ginger bread house, painting and hand stitching quilt patches for Church in a group called the Patchwork Ladies, These quilted patches were then shipped to Africa where the squares were put together to make a large quilt by the community. Dad was trying to a patchwork ladies group together at the Reformed church in St. Catharines but ran out of time.

My most favorite of crafts were the tie dye scarves which as you can see below that Moms turned out beautifully! You’re a talented lady Mom!

Judith Zelazny

January 15, 2021

I remember when we went to Mountain Oak Cheese Factory near Plattsville to buy some Gouda cheese crafted by Hannie Vanbergeijk and her husband along with their children. The Gouda cheese was awesome and we usually brought and order with us to Vineland. Hannie has won many first place awards for their Dutch crafted cheese.
Hannie, Mom and I became friends. We had coffee time together and Hannie came to one of Moms birthday parties and brought Mom a box of chocolates as a gift. Mom loves her sweets and chocolates. Thanks Hannie for all your love and support!

Judith Zelazny

January 15, 2021

I remember our many excursions whether it was to go shopping for clothes and shoes, St. Jacobs Market for treats, Martin’s Apple Farm, Ramakers in St. Catharines, Warehouse of Hope to pick up more diapers for Mom to sew, Nova Scotia to visit Annemieke, Peter and Tante Reit, Emmanuel Reformed Church in Woodstock every Sunday, Antiquing, Lens Mill for more wool, Thrifty Shopping, Tim Hortons, Camp Shalom Fall Fair, Bible School as a volunteer, Windmill Country Market, First Reformed Church in St. Catharines and most of all to look at running shoes in the Nike store where her grandson Trevor worked as Assistant Head Coach. Trevor always made time for his Oma.

I just love this picture of the two of them!

Trevor Zelazny

January 15, 2021

I remember when Oma taught Kris and I how to make boeterkook the true Dutch way made with love.

I’ll never forget that day. Kendall and I make it all the time. Love you and miss you Oma!

Judith Zelazny

January 15, 2021

Mom loved to knit and took her knitting with her all the time, wherever she went. It didn’t matter where she was, if she got bored or couldn’t sleep, out came the knitting needles.

I remember Mom knitting around the fire place outside, in the hospital waiting for test results, waiting for the train to come and late, late nights weeping as she knitted because she missed Dad so much.

One time when Mom ran out of wool I bought her some extra large balls as seen below. My Mom was very excited to say the least.

Marty Philippi

January 15, 2021

We only knew Mary for a short time since 2013 but it was an immediate connection with my own Oma. Both are Dutch and could speak “Hollanse” easily. Whenever together, the two Omas shared good laughs and good times. It was always a pleasure to welcome Mary to our home. May she rest in piece and comfort to the family in the knowledge that she will be remembered well.

Kris Zelazny

January 14, 2021

Oma was one of the most kindest souls on this planet. Every time we visited it was always a pleasure to be in her company. One particular time, Katie and I had went to visit, not for holidays or anything, but just a visit. Oma cooked us a delicious soup for lunch and we had a great time. That might be my favourite memory because of its simplicity. Both Opa and Oma were so happy to see us and more then happy to make time for conversation and laughs. Both of them will be missed dearly.

This is an unrelated picture, but I wanted to post it, as the trip to Africa, and subsequent efforts they put into the Snoei Community Centre is truly inspirational.

Judith Zelazny

January 14, 2021

It was Sunday June 19, 2016, when Mom, Karen and I left for Halifax on Via rail.
I remember waiting for the train at the Kitchener station. Mom got so bored just sitting there, waiting for the train, that Mom took out her knitting project and continued where she had left off. Karen and I just chuckled....,,,,,,
One of the many shopping places that Tante Reit took us to, once we arrived in Halifax, was “Jennifer’s of Nova Scotia.” A unique store where you could buy local artisans pieces in memory of your trip to Nova Scotia.
Karen was so excited when she found the perfect gift for Mary at Jennifer’s. A knitting bowl to hold Moms ball of wool do it wouldn’t roll away. Perfect!!
Mom loved Karen’s thoughtful gift and I remember Mom using it all the time. Mom just loved it! Thanks Tante Reit for showing us such an amazing time! Mom was thrilled!!

Judith Zelazny

January 14, 2021

My Dad is sitting here looking at the scale model of the Snoei Community Centre located in the community of Shamabanse. It’s become a beacon of hope for all the children who live there.
I remember how proud Dad was in explaining all the intricate details to myself, right down to the tiny, little sewing machines.
Mom and Dad funded this Centre in Africa where it’s been buzzing with activity ever since.
I remember Mom saying how eager the children were to learn and how she hadn’t brought enough wool for everyone. We both smiled..........Mom was such a teacher!

Judith Zelazny

January 13, 2021

Mom and Dad, may you rest in piece with David by your side. Love you both dearly! Enjoy the roses bought with love and give David a big kiss and hug from me. Thank you so much for the memories and save me a place in heaven!

Laura Borland

January 13, 2021

I had the pleasure of joining Oma in this painting session. Her sense of creativity and detail has always been something to admire. Every Christmas I take a look at our tree skirt and there is always a new part to get lost in.

Beerdje Schalk

January 13, 2021

Dear Snoei Family
We always enjoyed the tours with the Reformed Church tours that were hosted by your parents. They were fun times and well organized. We also joined your parents to New York for a weekend to take part in a fund raiser for the Black Choir in Queens. We had some great times over coffees as well. Your parents left a great legacy.
We shall remember your family in our prayers.
Kees & Beerdje

Karen Dalton

January 13, 2021

I met Mary through Judi, my best friend in my life, so much so I call Judi my sister!

I will remember Mary with fondness, she was kind and always had a smile. She entered my life as I was losing my mum. I had spent many hours with Mary and Judi, we had a lot of fun, laughs and of course eating out and sharing ice cream was always the plan, lol. As well, I had the privilege to accompany them to Nova Scotia to see where Mary landed when her family came to Canada.

Mary, it was a privilege to get to know you and you will always have a special place in my heart! Till we meet again!

Katrina Borland

January 13, 2021

Mary will always be special in my eyes. She lovingly made my wedding dress 28 years ago. I could never bring myself to sell it. All the fine detail work that went into cutting and each sewing each place flower. Thank you Mary. We'll have that dress and all the lunch and visit chats we had in Cambridge about your family and how much you loved them.

Glenda Jarvis

January 13, 2021

Dear Family, The one thing I remember the most about Marie is how quiet and sweet a person she was was and how she enjoyed sweets. For her one birthday, Judy brought her into the Niagara Warehouse of Hope Sewing Room. We had cupcakes for everyone to enjoy and sing “Happy Birthday” to her. The temptation of the sweets was too much for her so she ate it immediately before we had a chance to sing. Everyone enjoyed that and sang anyway!
Marie was an amazing lady in that at her advanced age still wanted to come in and sew with us and contribute to the less fortunate. She was a quiet , unassuming lady and was happy just to come in and sew and be a part of the Warehouse.
She will be missed........NWOH

Judith Zelazny

January 13, 2021

I remember our trip on the train to Nova Scotia with Mom and my sister Karen Dalton. We stopped off a a little kiosk that had beautiful jewelry. Moms eye caught a beautiful blue necklace, earring and bracelet set. Mom wore this to her funeral. Mom would love her first granddaughter Rachel to have it as she will cherish it forever. Love your Aunt Judi and Oma. See you in heaven!

Kendall Zelazny

January 13, 2021

I remember a time sitting down with the Zelazny clan, next to Oma. We went through a small box filled with Dolls, she had crocheted beautiful matching outfits for. They were delicate and made with such care. I looked at her and saw so much joy and appreciation in her handy work. She pulled out a doll with thick brown hair and a purple dress and handed it to me. “This one is for you, she looks like you!” And her smile beamed, she had the best smile.

Judith Zelazny

January 13, 2021

I remember Mom going to the Warehouse of Hope to sew diapers for the children in Africa every Tuesday and Thursday with Dad. Even when Mom lived in Cambridge, we would drive to pickup more diapers for her to see in her room. The ladies at the warehouse would greet us with fresh coffee and Dutch treats. Thanks to all the ladies at the Warehouse for their warmth and support!

Judith Zelazny

January 13, 2021

I remember going to Toronto with Mom for a day of shopping after a hard working summer in the green houses. Dad would give us money for a nice lunch out at our favorite restaurant. It was a day I’ll always cherish and remember. Thanks Dad and Mom

Kyle Zelazny

January 12, 2021

Going to the fall fair with Opa and Oma and helping them make and serve poffertjes to the community and also going camping with them and some of the cousins in the RV to Vallens Beach, Emerald Lake and Lake Erie.

Debbie Marsh

January 12, 2021

I enjoyed many Sunday afternoons with my grand babies visiting with Mary. She was often quick to remind us she'd had six of them. Mary so enjoyed time with the babies.

Katie Zelazny

January 11, 2021

My favorite memory of Oma is when she taught me how to crochet. In the beginning I was doing my knots too tight so she kept pulling them out and making me start over. Eventually I got the hang of it. She teased me about it every time I saw her. Even when her memory started to go she would tell me the story about the young lady who always did her crochet knots too tight and she'd laugh.

Judith Zelazny

January 11, 2021

In high school I met my soulmate Ken, who at the time, was not received well into our Christian family. After some heated discussions, my Mom said to me, “If you still love this boy in two weeks, I will talk to your father.”

Two weeks passed and my Mom talked to my Dad for me. Forty three years later, our love for each other grows stronger everyday. Thanks Mom!

FROM THE FAMILY