ANDREW ZDANOWICZ Andrew Zdanowicz passed away October 21, 2022, in Toronto with his children, Yola and Peter, by his side, following a valiant battle with cancer. Andrew was born in Bialystok, Poland February 3, 1938, to Slawomir and Helena Zdanowicz (Placek). After Russians falsely accused his father of spying and arrested him, Andrew, his mother, aunt, and Babcia heroically escaped Russian-occupied Poland, beginning an eleven-year journey ending when he landed in Canada, at age 13. Andrew connected with his great love, Krystyna, through friends at the University of Toronto Polish Students Club. A dashing duo on the dance floor, they shared a passion for family, their Polish culture, community advocacy and art. An accomplished singer, Andrew was as comfortable with opera as he was with Broadway show tunes. His beautiful baritone moved people to both laughter and tears. Proudly Polish Canadian, Andrew was indelibly marked by his heritage but was equally invested in building the fabric of Canadian society. Concerned for those in need, he was committed to giving back and was deeply involved in sponsoring Polish and Vietnamese Displaced Persons. A committed architect and problem solver, Andrew channeled his talents and creativity into improving government housing policy by championing innovations that enhanced and saved lives. Loving father to Peter and Yola Zdanowicz, father-in-law to Jane Barratt, Andrew Grenville and John Weight, Dziadzio/mentor to Tate, Tomas and Lucas Zdanowicz and Cameron, Colin, and Ian Grenville. Andrew is survived by his wife, Krystyna. A Celebration of Life will be held at The University of Toronto Faculty Club at 41 Willcocks St. Toronto on November 19, 2022 (1-1:30 p.m. welcoming friends/family, 1:30 p.m. service, with reception to follow). Please RSVP
[email protected] if you plan to attend. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives (CCPA) in Andrew's name.
Published by The Globe and Mail from Nov. 5 to Nov. 13, 2022.