Theodora (Dora) Maria Shwaga
On October 5, 2020 Theodora ‘Dora’ Shwaga of Athabasca, Alberta passed away after a lengthy illness at the age of 87.
Dora was born April 1, 1933 in Athabasca, AB. She married Steve Shwaga on December 27, 1954, in a double ring double wedding ceremony with her sister Jeannie and Michael Browne.
Dora attended Ferguson School for grade 1-8 and Athabasca grade 9-12. She then went to the University of Alberta and obtained her Teaching Certificate. Her first teaching position was at Rochester East School, then Mercury School, Lahaieville School, back to Mercury School and then in 1960 Calling Lake School where she remained until her retirement in 1998. She received numerous recognition awards while at Calling Lake School. Teaching was her passion and her students were all very special to her.
Dora loved being outside enjoying her beautiful flowers, tending to her garden and mowing the huge lawn. She often mentioned that gardening was her form of relaxation. Many hours each summer were spend picking berries, which became delicious pies, canned fruit, jams and jellies. She also enjoyed sewing, knitting, crocheting and quilting and was a member of ‘Quilting for Humanity’ for many years. Dora enjoyed history and writing. She wrote and published 6 history books; “From Poland to Canada” Vol1, 2, & 3 (Staszewski family history), ‘Max and Mary Shwaga’ (family history book), “Memories of Feguson” (Feguson School history) and “By A Lake of Sparkling Blue” (Calling Lake School history). She also worked on the history book ‘Reflections Across the River”. Crafts were at the top of her hobby list. Each year she created a Christmas ornament for all 68 family members, including herself, most of which were personalized. Her biggest creation was a family wall hanging she made for her children, along with an explanation of each piece of fabric used. She gave out home made cards, trademarked ‘A-Dora-bls Images’ and they always had a picture of something which was meaningful to her.
Family was everything and it brought great joy when the grandchildren and great-grandchildren came to visit. She devoted her time to them, reading, cooking, playing games and even though they may not have realized, everything she did with them was educational. She instilled the drive to learn in all those around her.
Dora had a big impact on many people, including students, teachers, neighbors, community groups and friends. She was well-liked and admired for her dedication, inventiveness, attention to detail and ongoing support. Those who knew her always have nothing but admiration for all she has done for them or others over the years.
Dora is survived by her loving husband of 66 years, Steve, children Susann (Ken) Alberts, David (Jan), Carolyn Lucas, Glen (Elaine), Gerald (Tammy), Neil (Sheri) Wendy (Lance) StuckeI; 31 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren. Brother Fred Staszewski, (Eleanor), Sister-in-laws Mary Schwaga and Margaret Shwaga, numerous nieces, nephews, neighbours and friends.
She was predeceased by her parents John and Zofia Staszewski, brother Ed (Maudie), sisters Stefani (Earl) Baldwin, Sabinka (Alex) Pacholok, Jeannie (Michael) Browne, Grandsons Lee Shwaga and Matt Beaudet.
Even through her illness and all the pain she suffered, she maintained a positive attitude and projected that to the end. She was more concerned about others than herself. All she asked was for her family to be happy.
A huge THANK YOU to Dr. Ade for going above and beyond in attending to Mom during the last months of her illness.
A private family graveside service was held on October 17, 2020 at the Athabasca Community Cemetery.
A Memorial Service will be planned in 2021.
Donations can be made to Quilting for Humanity Society PO Box 1103 Athabasca, AB T9S 2A9 or a charity of your choice.
