Born October 29, 1930 in Lyskornia, Poland, she lived with her parents and three sisters.  She was only 9 years old when World War II threatened the lives of her entire family.  She learned how to survive during this very difficult period in her life.  In 1957, Pola married Stanislaw and in 1958 immigrated to Canada, where she gave birth to her only child, Elizabeth. 

Pola set roots in the Polish community of Roncesvalles, where St. Casimir’s Parish served as a foundation for her faith, as she lovingly raised her daughter with honest and solid core values.  She worked as an upholstery seamstress throughout her working life, never complaining.  Pola and Stan worked side by side building a happy and productive life together.  She lost her beloved Stanislaw to cancer in 1979, which was heartbreaking for both her and Elizabeth.

In 1983, Elizabeth married Stephen Austin and in 1986, Pola was overjoyed with the birth of her first grandson Matthew, whom she cherished beyond all else.  She was further blessed with two more grandsons, Michael in 1988 and Daniel in 1990, whom she equally adored.  Her grandsons were always the centre of her universe and never failed to warm her heart and put a radiant smile on her face.  “Babi” travelled on vacations with her family to Poland, countless trips to Florida and New Jersey, to visit family and maintain a strong family connection. 

Pola was always a strong and proud woman, never sick a day in her life. In February 2019, her health was unexpectedly challenged, but she seemed to bounce back. At the beginning of July, she was sadly diagnosed with stage 4 ovarian cancer, which took a tremendous toll on her independence.

Once released from hospital, Pola was warmly embraced in the home of her loving family, who opted for in-home palliative care arranged through Sunnybrook Hospital and The Temmy Latner Centre for Palliative Care.  Elizabeth never left her side to the end and her son-in-law and adoring grandchildren were constantly surrounding her in abundant love and selfless care.

She was sad with the thought of having to breathe her last breath, knowing she had to say goodbye to those she loved and lived for and move on to God’s gentle embrace.

Apolonia has left the Austin family with a legacy of family tradition and connection, that will always be honoured and never forgotten.  Until we meet again, rest in peace….we love you.