MARY KIRLIK

KIRLIK, MARY Loving wife, mother, mother-in-law and grandmother/Mamma, Mary Kirlik peacefully passed away on Tuesday, January 17, 2023, in her 86th year. Her loss is incalculable. Mary is survived by her husband of 66 years, Louis; and their two sons and their families, Todd, Penny, Jordan and his wife, Becca; Abigail and her husband, Andrew Ball; and Brian and his wife, Sarah, and Brian's daughter, Erin. Predeceased by her first son, Richard, in 1960. Mary touched many people over the years with her kindness, bright smile, sharp sense of humour and inspirational courage. She knew her way around the kitchen, loved to cook, sip on good wine and chat about the things in life that made her happy or sad. No matter the challenge or time of day, she always wanted to help. When Mary's health challenges grew, she tackled them head on, brushing aside complications to fiercely maintain her independence and spirit. She never backed down or complained, she simply looked forward in the face of incredible odds, leaving her family and numerous medical professionals wondering how. As we reflect on her passing and honour her memory, we're inspired to continue Mary's legacy of caring and love of life for future generations of the family she nurtured. She asked us not to mourn, but rather to celebrate a life lived well, on her terms until the very end; so that's exactly what we're going to do. We already miss her more than words can convey but we also know that her influence and love still walks alongside us. A private celebration for family and close friends will be held in Mary's honour. A donation in her name can be made to the Sunnybrook Hospital Foundation at: www.sunnybrook.ca/foundation/