It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Jan Wala: husband to Danuta, father of Jarek, Tomek and Joanna and grandfather to Boris, Philip, Evelina and Martyna.

Jan was born on October 31, 1940 in Groble, Poland to parents Katarzyna and Jozef Wala. He was the middle child of 3 sons. He served in the Polish Army as a tank mechanic, lieutenant rank from 1959 to 1961. He had a love for all things nature. He wanted to be a forestry ranger but ultimately the love of the open seas won out. Jan spent 22 years as a refrigeration mechanic, first, on cargo ships and later on cruise ships. If there was a port, he most likely had visited it. He emigrated to Canada in 1981 and was reunited with his family in 1983. Edmonton became their new home. He was an avid gardener, loved long walks and spent hours on crossword puzzles. He was very generous with his time, often offering a helping hand and volunteering with The Knights of Columbus. Jan was preceded by his parents and his 2 brothers; Juliusz and Aleksander.

He is survived by his wife of 56 years, Danuta, his 3 children and 4 grandchildren. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to either the Knights of Columbus or the Living Rosary Society at Our Lady Queen of Poland Church in Edmonton, Alberta.