Obituary of Madeleine Wisniewski

August 20, 1927 – Saint-Prosper, Québec

September 16, 2024 – Calgary, Alberta

Madeleine Wisniewski (nee Jacques), beloved wife of the late William “Willi” Wisniewski, passed away on Monday, September 16, 2024, at the age of 97 years.

Madeleine was born in Saint-Prosper, Québec, on August 20, 1927. She was the second eldest of fifteen children. Her first language was French, while Willi was Polish, and during their courtship, they learned English together.

Madeleine married Willi in 1954, and throughout their incredible 56 years of marriage, they had four children; Dan (Jane) from Barrie, ON, Carole Westlake (Bob) from Calgary, AB, Ed (Marlene) from Calgary, AB, and Claire Kelly (Russ) from Chestermere, AB. She had ten grandchildren, Colin, Alan, Claire, Andy, Matthew, Michelle, Nicholas, Brian, Jessica, and Ryan, as well as twelve great-grandchildren, Danielle, Hailie, Emily, Grady, Bryson, Nora, Isabel, Emma, Andie, Kya, Benjamin, and William.

As a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, her unconditional love, strength of spirit, and unending generosity shone through with unwavering dedication to her family. Throughout her life, she found joy in following a healthy lifestyle. Her favourite activities included gardening, yoga, walking, sewing, cooking, and traveling.

In addition to their recreational travel, Madeleine moved with Willi to Vancouver, Seattle, and Hawaii for work, where she enjoyed volunteering at local hospitals. Madeleine was a dedicated Catholic, attending Mass every Sunday, and faithfully praying her rosary every evening. 

Even in her later years, Madeleine never stopped walking. At her retirement home, she eagerly participated in activities like bingo, carpet bowling, horse racing, and tile rummy. She also took up tai-chi and painting classes. 

As we grapple with the loss of her physical presence, we will find solace in knowing that she is reunited with her soulmate Willi, and our Lord God; Madeleine is no longer in pain and her soul has found peace.

Remembering Madeleine brings warmth to our hearts. She was a shining example of kindness and love; her gentle and supportive nature will always be cherished.

The family would like to extend their appreciation to the staff at Arbour Lake Retirement Residence for their numerous years of support and friendship, as well as the nursing staff at Rockyview Hospital, Unit 61, for their care and compassion during Madeleine’s final days. 

Madeleine is survived by her sisters, Thérèse Gervais (Albert) of Ottawa, ON, Louisette Morin (Hermann) of Hearst, ON, Hélène Pouliot (Claude) of Hearst, ON, Cecile Matte (René) of Longlac, ON, Lise Morin (Claude) of Hearst, ON; and brothers, Maurice Jacques (Lucille) of Hearst, ON, and Jean-Guy Jacques (Alice) of Hearst, ON. 

Those wishing to pay their respects may do so at McInnis & Holloway (Heritage, 1708, 16th Avenue N, across from the North Hill Shopping Centre, Calgary, AB) on Wednesday, September 25, 2024, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Peter’s Catholic Church (541 Silvergrove Dr NW, Calgary, AB) on Thursday, September 26, 2024, at 12:00 p.m. Graveside Service to follow at Queen's Park Cemetery. Reception to follow in the Parish Hall.

Family and friends who are unable to attend in person are invited to join Madeleine’s service streamed live (see link below) on the day of the service.

Condolences, memories, and photos may be shared and viewed with Madeleine’s family here.

In living memory of Madeleine Wisniewski, a tree will be planted in the Ann & Sandy Cross Conservation Area by McInnis & Holloway Funeral Homes, Heritage, 1708 – 16th Avenue NW, Calgary, AB, T2M 0L7, Telephone: 403-299-0100.

Click Here to View Madeleine's Memorial Card

Click Here to Watch the Funeral Mass for Madeleine Wisniewski