Obituary of Zbigniew Peter Podstolski

Passed away at McCormick Home on Thursday, March 2nd, 2017 in his 93rd year. Peter leaves behind his wife Czeslawa Irena of 61 years and the subject of his published short story “Love with a Postmark” in “50 True Love Stories”, and his daughter Yvonne Stephens (Gerald). He is survived by his younger brother Bogumił and relatives in Poland, Australia and New Zealand. Born in Radom, Poland, Peter came to London, Ontario in 1959 by way of Auschwitz-Birkenau (where he was a prisoner and escapee of the concentration camp), Germany, Italy and England, having served in para-military forces, and the 2nd Polish Corps. of the British 8th Army. During 13 years in the United Kingdom, he worked for a crown corporation, a municipal government and was in production control of a General Motors division. Here, Peter worked first at McManus Motors and then the remainder of his career at Canada Post, first as a clerk and then a plant manager. After retirement, he continued to work as a translator for the cross-cultural center and as a school bus driver, along with continuing to ride his motorcycle and play piano, all well into his 80's. He loved music (classical and big band), dancing (at the Stork Club), good food and drink, motorcycles, cars, sailing, comedy (especially British), dogs, children and people! More than anything, his wife (with whom he was able to share the last year at McCormick Home). He was a true gentleman… Cremation has taken place after a quiet, thoughtful honour guard by so many staff, volunteers and residents at McCormick Home. For providing him with the kindness and care much deserved and needed in his last year of life, donations to the McCormick Care Foundation would be so gratefully appreciated so that they may continue to provide ongoing care in our community. Lastly, a thank you to the hundreds of people along his way…