Dzijacky, Andrew

1930 - 2008 We are profoundly saddened to announce the passing of our incredibly brave, strong spirited father, Andrew Dzijacky at the age of 78, following a motor vehicle accident, Andrew succumbed to his injuries on Saturday, August 23, 2008. Andy was born May 24, 1930 in the small village of Kurima, Slovakia, a humble and simple beginning. Along with his mother Mary and older brother John, Andy at the age of 7 arrived in Fort William to join up with John Sr. who had immigrated previously to prepare for their arrival. His brother George was born 12 years later and completed the family. Andy was raised in the East End of Fort William, was schooled at Ogden Street and Selkirk High. Like most young fellows growing up in the early 50's, he held down several part time jobs until, like his father before him, was hired full time by the Canadian Pacific Railway and remained there until his retirement in 1992. In February of 1953 Andy married the love of his life Georgina Dawson and recently they celebrated their 55th wedding anniversary. Andy was like no other, he had an incredible zest for life and lived it to the fullest. His son and 6 daughters were his absolute pride and joy and over the years, Andy and Georgina welcomed 16 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren. Family celebrations were the cornerstone of Andy's life. There was always a birthday, graduation, baptism, wedding, etc. to bring the family together either at home or at Loon Lake. Nothing made him happier. Andy had a passion for gardening, loved to fish and travelling was also a huge interest. Andy and Georgina spent many winters in Florida and recently enjoyed short travel outings with the CPR Pensioners Group. He also volunteered his time to what he believed to be a very valuable initiative, the restoration of the CPR Passenger Rail Car. Friends were also an integral part of Andy's life and he was deemed a lifetime member of "The Happy Gang". Generous at heart, Andy never hesitated to provide help to others less fortunate than himself. Andy is survived by his loving wife Georgina, son Jim, daughters Cathy (Eric) Siegwart, Susan (Dean) McDonald, Maureen Parkes, Sharon (Jerry) Kelly, Colleen (Jim) Fayle and Shannon (Ray) Spooner. Grandchildren listed by age are Ryan McDonald, Andrew Siegwart, Joshua Siegwart, Deena Curtis, Tanner McDonald, Lindsay Nardone, Adam McDonald, Sarah Parkes, Laura Siegwart, Jennifer Kelly, Benjamin Parkes, Melissa Turk, Jerry Kelly Jr. , Rachel Parkes, Whitney Kelly and baby Georgia Rae Spooner, brothers John (Ann) and George (June) Dzijacky and numerous nieces and nephews. Andy was predeceased by his father John and mother Mary, mother-in-law Mary Michon. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, August 27, 2008 when family and friends will gather for the Funeral Mass in St. Dominic's Church at 11:00 a.m. celebrated by Rev. Daniel Lapolla c.s. A private family interment will follow at Mountain View Cemetery. Vigil prayers will be offered on Tuesday evening at 7:00 p.m. in St. Dominic's Church. If friends desire, memorials to the Canadian Cancer Society "Thunder Bay Region", or the George Jeffrey Children's Treatment Centre would be appreciated. "Safe in the arms of Jesus, until we meet again" A tree will be planted in memory of Andrew Dzijacky in the Blake Funeral Chapel Memorial Grove. Annual dedication service Sunday, June 28, 2009. On-line Condolences may be sent to www.blakefuneralchapel.com