Jacek Wojewodzic

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Jacek Wojewodzic, in Richmond, BC, aged 66, on August 16, 2025. 

Jacek Wojewodzic, the second son of Henryk and Halina Wojewodzic, was born on October 26, 1958, in Andrychów, Poland—a town located just 10 kilometers from Wadowice, the known birthplace of Pope John Paul II. 

At the age of 12, Jacek received the sacrament of confirmation from Bishop Karol Wojtyla, who would later become Pope John Paul II. He is survived by his brothers, Marek and Lesław, along with this mother Halina, who at 91 years old, mourns the life of her incredible son.

Jacek had a happy and loving childhood. Living near the mountains, he loved skiing with his parents and brothers. His passions included cycling, fishing, and swimming, and he even obtained the title as a certified lifeguard. An avid athlete, he also played volleyball and competed in the Kraków voivodeship (province) tournaments. He completed his education and became a qualified electromechanical technician.

The imposition of martial law in Poland in 1981 found Jacek a stay for new beginnings in Germany. In 1982, he emigrated, first to Austria, before legally settling in Hamilton Ontario, where he took upon Canadian Citizenship. Born in the Kraków Province, he fondly reminisced about learning the traditional Krakowiak dance during extracurricular sessions at a language school in Hamilton. Eventually, he was drawn to the stunning beauty of the West coast and chose Vancouver- then Richmond, as his final home after a courageous road trip through the provinces of the country. Jacek reunited with his parents, Halina and Henryk, along with his brothers, numerous times during his settlement in Canada. 

A passionate explorer, Jacek traveled extensively and ventured into remote parts of Canada in a boat he built himself.

Jacek was a man of many talents—a handyman skilled in all things practical and physical, an excellent cook, and a patient teacher from whom we all had so much to learn. He faced life with an unwavering positive spirit, with the natural desire to make people happier and put a smile on their faces. The kindest man to strangers, coworkers, neighbours, animals, and the extended community. He inspires people with his undivided love, attention and care for those around him. 

Throughout his adult life, Jacek was known for his industrious nature. He was actively involved in parish and school activities at Saint Paul’s, as well as the architecture for the Richmond Olympic Oval and London Heritage Farm. Soon enough, established and then retired a long and dedicated career with his automobile service with OpenRoad Toyota, that felt like a second home for him. 

Together with his wife, Edyta, he raised three wonderful children: Olaf, Olivia, and Daniel, who he leaves behind. He was an amazing and utterly devoted father, recognized as the foundation of the family. He shall always be remembered for his sacrifices and utmost support and dedication; to make their house feel like home. He was a one in a kind type of man. Jacek will forever be cherished, and his legacy will live on through the lives he touched.

We love and miss you so much Jacek (Yatzek) - Son, Brother, Husband, Father, and Grandfather. 

May you rest in eternal peace, you will forever live in our hearts. 

A Memorial Mass for Jacek will be taking place at 10:00 AM on Friday, August 29, at St. Casimir's Roman Catholic Parish, 1187 E 27th Ave, Vancouver, BC V5V 2L7

A Burial Service will follow at 1:30 PM on Friday, August 29, at Gethsemani Catholic Cemetery, 15694 32 Ave, Surrey, BC.