MS. MARIE KUZMINSKI of Gibson’s Landing,Vancouver, BC, beloved daughter of Ted and Janina Kuzminski, passed away at home in BC on Saturday, December 5, 2009 of terminal Cancer at the age of 53 years.

Marie is survived by her parents Ted and Janina; sister Helena Vedres (Mark Long); niece Fayla Vedres all of Lethbridge; brother Mike (Kristen) Kuzminski; nephew Jacek Kuzminski recently of Vancouver, BC; brother Ted (Tina) Kuzminski; niece Romney Kuzminski of Minneapolis, Minnesota.

Marie is also survived by her aunt Helen Blech; Helen’s daughter Jeanette (Keith) Greeno and their son Robert; Helen’s daughter Christine (Ian) Wilson and their children Janelle and Kalene.

Marie was a happy, sunny person with much optimism. Her life revolved around her love of animals and deep friendships of those who knew her. Everyone was acquainted with Marie in Gibson’s and always spoke lovingly and enthusiastically when describing her. She was loved by all. Marie will always be remembered for her infectious laugh, happy disposition and intense proudness of her animals, always being there with her kind heart and passionate words of hope and joy to everyone she encountered.

Marie first moved to Calgary at the age of 17, then moved and chose Gibson’s Landing as her final home for the past 27 years. She was strong, independent and free spirited confirming she could achieve the impossible while never doubting. She continually proved her accomplishments with her chosen goals.

Marie dedicated her love and time to the S.P.C.A. of Sechelt before being offered a full time position. The staff loved Marie and her thriving compassion for all animals and employees. The staff helped tend to Marie’s menagerie of animals during her many visits and treatments at the Vancouver Cancer Clinic. Marie, ever the concerned one for the welfare of others, would fight for strength, to be back with her family of pets so as not to impose on anyone’s good will. She continually thought of others before herself and will be remembered for her heart of gold.

Marie also had a love for the cinema. Her aspirations carried her through as an extra in the occasional local film also with the involvement with various drama clubs. She sustained much joy from her movies and television programs.

Marie was often described as a miracle. After her birth in Vilnus, Lithuania, she contracted polio proceeding 33 babies in the ward. She was the living miracle. Then again, to the amazement of her cancer specialists, she out preceded other patients with this type of Cancer, outliving them by 3 years in remission before the cancer returned.

You held on lovely one, as long as life allowed. No more is the pain that ravished your body.

No more is the fear of uncertainty. We loved all that you were. Go in peace with the freedom to live your dreams. You are finally home now.

A Prayer Service will be held at CORNERSTONE FUNERAL HOME, 2800 Mayor Magrath Drive South, Lethbridge on Monday, December 14, 2009 at 7:00 P.M. with Francis and Cybele Noronha officiating.

A Funeral Mass will be Celebrated at OUR LADY OF THE ASSUMPTION CATHOLIC CHURCH, 2405-12 Avenue South Lethbridge on Tuesday, December 15, 2009 at 10:30 A.M. with Reverend Tim Boyle Celebrant.

Interment to follow at Mountain View Cemetery.

In memory of Marie, donations may be made to BC SPCA, 4376 Solar Road, Sechelt, BC V0N 3A1.