Monica M. Witecki

(continued) The addition of Grams oxygen tank didnt slow her down in the car. She had her set-up: pillow to sit on and another to hold her oxygen in place and off shed go. She even multi-tasked by using her cellular telephone and listening to Polkas! When getting out of the car became a challenge she would simply pull up your driveway and lay on the horn until you came out (mind you Gram was an early riser). I can recall her solo trips to the Super KMart in Portage. I cringe to think of all those shoppers darting out of her way as she propelled herself through the store on the electric cart. I have no idea how it stayed upright with that front basket so weighted down. Upon her arrival home shed begin the phone tree to have her car unloaded...and youd better come quick - because the milk would spoil! Gram always took great pride in her appearance. I remember Mom being Grams personal beautitian. I never quite filled those beautitian shoes but last Sunday she told me that the way I fixed her hair was the best ever. Gram also loved to shop. Back in the day Angeline and her probably seemed like employees at L.S. Ayres Carsons and the Davis store.

(continued) Grandma went through many care-givers while living in Ingram Manor in Portage and even more care-givers and moves as she traveled the nursing home circuit until she truely found home at St. Anthonys. She developed a special closeness to several unique people who considered Gram an extension of their families. We were very fortunate for that and will always be thankful to those special people who helped to make Gram feel so comfortable. Grandma endured a lot however we also know that those who took care of her endured a lot too. We can never thank them enough for their patience understanding and care. Gram was very fortunate to have such a close friend by the name of Betty. Gram spoke very highly of you Betty and was very greatful for your love and friendship...and of course all of your visits and lively conversation. Gram was absolutely right when she told me that there werent many friends like Betty in the world. Although today brings much sadness it brings a smile to my face when I recall the pride Gram shared in the marriage of my brother to his wife Jenny and the joy she expressed when she saw her great-grandson Logan the day he was born.

Whats a grandmother? To be quite honest Monica broke the mold for what one may imagine when they conjure up those thoughts. I must say that my brother and I were truely blessed to be surrounded and comforted by Grams love and care from our very beginning as mom and dad always instilled the importance of family first. Grandma had a passion for cooking and you could always count on her having something to eat - and if you didnt eat...thered be trouble. Her perogies gawumpkies and cabbage and noodles will forever be missed. I also know that even with her personal airbake pan and recipe - Ill never be able to match her cheesecake. Gram was an avid fan of the gambling boat. We can recall her excitement over a win and my frustration as she put it all back into the machine. Gram was always on the go. Her car appeared to be an extension of herself. As the years went by however we would agree that her expertise at driving diminished a bit. Her car had multiple dings - none of which she claimed as her fault though! She once told me that she knew that she was far enough in a parking spot when she nudged the car in front of her. My mailbox also suffered a nudge or two. She did bring to my attention that it wasnt the regulation distance from the driveway.

(continued) Grandma was so very fortunate for her son who was by her side through it all. For those of you who truely know Gram - at times you must know that this daily task was not always an easy one for Teddy. He however took it all in stride - each day a challenge...perhaps a unique opportunity. Through it all- he did it with all of the love and care he had within him. I admire him for what he did and I know how proud Mom is of him as she is now reunited with both her Mom and Dad in Heaven. As we left St. Anthonys nursing home with all of Grams items in tow on Thursday afternoon the chearful receptionist at the front door asked Going home? I hesitated...then repled Yes shes going home. On behalf of Monica we would like to thank each and every one of you for your love kindness patience and at times forgiveness throughout the years. We thank you for your payers your heart-felt sympathies beautiful flowers and cards. Grandma has been blessed by each and every one of you in a very special way. Thank you Colleen

Dear Teddy My prayers and thoughts are with you in the loss of your mother.I will be having a Mass said for your mom from Josephine and myself. In case you dont remember me I am Frank Wypiskis daughter. God Bless you with the strength and endurance to deal with this loss. Take care.

Ted We were so sorry to hear about your mother. Our hearts go out to you. Having just gone through this last month ourselves we know how difficult a time this is. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Jim & Rene

Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.