Mary (Maria) Blonsky, 1943-2008

Mary (Maria) Blonsky, age 65, passed in her sleep Dec. 1, 2008, at her home in Airdrie, AB. Mary was born to Katharina and Josef Jelinek in Sofiendorf, Hungary Sept. 7, 1943. She was the third of four daughters born to the Jelinek family. In October 1944 the family left their hometown as World War II crept closer. In 1949 they were able to board a ship and immigrate to Canada. They set up their new home on a farm just outside of Valleyview, this is where Mary grew up. After completing high school, Mary went to Calgary to obtain her nursing degree. She then moved to High Prairie to work. On Oct. 26, 1963, she married Steve Blonsky. They lived on the Blonsky farm just west of town. Ten years later, the love of their life, Patricia, was born. Soon after, Mary changed careers and became a playschool teacher. She was greatly loved by plenty of children who always raced in the door to get their daily hugs and cuddles. Later in life, Mary decided on another career change and became a matron at the local RCMP detachment. Mary enjoyed her time in High Prairie. Mary and Steve could often be found at the local coffee shop having breakfast or lunch with friends. They were always ready for a good barbecue or family gathering. Mary’s family was a large part of her life and she often made trips to Valleyview and Edmonton to visit her relatives. Mary and Steve also enjoyed taking cruises and all-inclusive family trips to exotic sun destinations. Life was good. After some difficult times, Mary moved to Airdrie to be closer to her family. She resumed her job as a matron at the local RCMP station in Airdrie. She continued the weekly breakfast ritual at the local coffee shop with family and friends. She enjoyed spending time with her granddaughter. She was adored by her young granddaughter, who nicknamed Mary “Grandma Choo Choo” because the train would go past her place. Mary leaves behind many people who love her and will miss her dearly. She will always be remembered for her beautiful smile, kind words and sense of humour. Mary is survived by: her daughter Patricia (William) Hunter, granddaughter Tekla Hunter, sister Erika (Ed) Lazarenko, sister Anna (Bud) Giesbrecht and brother-in-law Robert (Christina) Rieter and numerous nieces and nephews. Mary was predeceased by: her husband Steve Blonsky Nov. 13, 2006; her sister Christina Rieter on April 22, 2004; her father Josef Jelinek on July 21, 2002; and her mother Katharina Jelinek on Nov. 9, 2001. As per Mary’s request there will be no funeral or memorial service. Memorial contributions may be made to The Canadian Cancer Society or a charity of choice.

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