Obituary of Andrew Gula

GULA, Andrew It is with sorrow the family of Andrew Gula announce his peaceful passing into the gentle hands of his heavenly Father on March 3, 2006 in his 102nd year . Predeceased by his dear wife Bernice (1998). Andrew and Bernice were married for 67 years and the proud parents of 4 sons. Andrew is survived by sons Walter and his wife Helen of St. Catharines, Ted and his wife Diane of Fenwick, daughters-in-law Marie of East Amherst , N.Y. and Margaret of Fenwick. Predeceased by two sons Stanley (2001) and Henry (1999). Also survived by 13 grandchildren, 20 great-grandchildren and 4 great-great-grandchildren. Dear brother-in-law of Mary and Johnny Onyskow of St. Catharines and Stella (Mike) Tomiuck of Welland. Dad (Andrew) was born in Poland in 1904. When he was a young man he worked in the lumber camps. He also served his country in the army corp by training and taking care of the calvary horses. Dad's position was to discipline the horses for their role in combat. He also groomed and trained the ceremonial horses rode by officers and men for special events. His favourite horse was a beautiful white stallion that he proudly rode. He fondly told many stories of his life in Poland. After completion of his duties in the army in Poland, a new adventurous life beckoned in Canada. In 1926 he arrived. He began work as a farmhand in Jordan and later was employed at General Motors. His faith in God inspired himself and others to a small community church on Niagara Street. He later became a founding member of Our Lady of Perpetual Help church. Dad embraced life in Canada. He was blessed with a family and good friends while always honouring those he left behind in Poland. On retirement from General Motors, he delighted in his vegetable, flowers and fruit tree gardens. He was always ready with a helping hand for his family, neighbours and friends. He moved from his home at the age of 94 years to Heidehof Home for the Aged. His failing eyesight and our Mom was gone and there were new ears at the "home" to listen to stories. He welcomed the change. Here, we, Old Jagi's family, give thanks to all at Heidehof for their kindness and devoted care to him. Showing him always the greatest respect for his proud independence. One day we noticed these words written on their blackboard: "Youth is a gift of nature! Age is a work of art!" Our family has been truly "blessed". Our Dad became a work of art. Also, our heartfelt thanks to Father Kosian for his many years of comfort to both Andrew and Bernice. Mr. Gula is resting at the GEORGE DARTE FUNERAL CHAPEL, 585 Carlton Street, St. Catharines until Wednesday, March 8th at 12:30pm. Funeral Liturgy will be celebrated on Wednesday at 1pm at Our Lady Of Perpetual Help church. Visiting hours on Tuesday, March 7th from 2-4pm and 7-9pm. Vigil prayers for the deceased on Tuesday at 7pm. If desired, memorial donations can be made to the Heidehof Home for the Aged or the CNIB would be appreciated by the family.