Emma Poncsak

MRS. EMMA PONCSAK nee. SZILVACSKU of Coaldale, beloved wife of the late Andrew Poncsak, passed away suddenly on May 24, 2009 at the age of 88 years.

Emma was born on January 2, 1921 in Tornyospálca Szabolcs Megyá, Hungary near the banks of the Tisza River. She grew up there living through the Second War conflict, losing most of her friends in it. Emma met Andrew through correspondence leading to her emigration to Canada. She left Hungary in December 1948, arriving in Canada in January 1949. Emma and Andrew married on February 14, 1949 at Lethbridge. She joined him on the farm near Coaldale, where they raised their family. Emma was active on the farm her entire life, working side by side as a companion and partner with her husband Andrew, until his death in 1975. She lived a frugal life, filled with hard work and commitment to her family and farm. Emma continued to live on the farm until she moved to Coaldale to be closer to her grandchildren. She lived in Coaldale until her passing. She stayed close to home but never regretted a trip once taken, as few and far between as they were. Her life was plants and flowers, filling the house and a large garden.

Emma is survived by her son Steve, daughter Mary (Wayne) Etches, and grandchildren Andrew and Gregory Etches; two brothers and two sisters in Hungary, and numerous nieces and nephews in Hungary.

Besides her loving husband Andrew, Emma was predeceased by her parents in Hungary, and two brothers; Imre and Pista.

Vigil Rites (Prayers) will be held at 7:00PM, on Wednesday, May 27, 2009, at MARTIN BROS. RIVERVIEW CHAPELS, 610 - 4 St., S., Lethbridge, Alberta.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11:00 AM on Thursday, May 28, 2009, at ST. BASIL'S ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH, 604 13 Street North, Lethbridge, AB, with Father Tim Boyle, celebrant.