Obituary of Jan Kamzol

Peacefully passed away with his family close by at the Sault Area Hospital on Sunday, July 31, 2016 in his 97th year. Beloved husband of Helena Kamzol for 66 years. Cherished father of Anthony (Janice), Stanley (Patricia) and Mark Kamzol. Remarkable grandfather to Andrew, Christopher, Jamie and Tyler and uncle to Marzena Gazda (Andrzej). Dear brother-in-law to Stanislawa "Stella" Kamzol (late Antoni) and Karolina "Krystyna" Grec (late Jan). Dear brother of Zenobia Rucinska of Poland. Special thanks to those who helped make his last years as pleasant and supportive as possible: Drs. Ianni and Bignell and the teams at Medical Day Care / Renal / Emergency, the Canadian War Veterans Association (especially Sylvia), and the teams from Bayshore Home Health and WeCare. Fondly remembered by his many friends with whom he enjoyed life. Whether at the casino in recent years or previously at Vic Tanney's or the Water Tower Inn he loved to invite his many friends into his world. He loved to fish, to pick mushrooms or berries and to recite his stories from an incredibly rich life. Born into a world of turmoil in-between world wars he suffered through years of internment in Russian Siberia, then volunteered to join the Polish 2nd Corps who gallantly fought with their allies of the British 8th Army through the Middle East and then into Italy. A decorated tank driver who made a home in the turret of the Sherman battle tank he fought with passion and professionalism through Monte Cassino, to Ancona and eventually into Bologna. It was these formidable years that created a connection with fellow warriors in the Canadian regiments and eventually led to his emigration to Canada. John didn't forget the early post-war years in which he held a number of character-building jobs eventually settling on a career at Algoma Steel in the Sault. John also never forgot friends or the fortune of honesty and integrity in his life. He was often referred to as "Chief", "paisano", "kolega" by all whom he met. Seldom does such a modest and sincere man become such a memorable inspiration. Donations in lieu of flowers to any Canadian Veterans charity of your choice.