Obituary of Mildred A. Balawejder

Mildred Ann Balawejder (1920-2011) devoted wife, loving parent, doting grandparent and caring friend, passed away peacefully on February 9, 2011 in Santa Cruz, CA. She was born Mildred Ann Zylinski in Braddock, PA., the same week that women got the right to vote. Married to John Balawejder, they raised six children in Pittsburgh, PA. After retiring she moved to Santa Cruz, CA and attended art school where she found her artistic calling through painting, expressing herself in dynamic colors. Mildred was an Executive Secretary at Westinghouse and then for the war department during World War II. After 30 years raising her children she returned to work as Administrative Assistant to the Board of Directors at Mercy Hospital in Pittsburgh, PA. On retirement Mildred enjoyed working at the Franciscan and then Mid County Senior Center in Santa Cruz. She also volunteered at this time at the Mission Santa Cruz gift shop. Mildred is survived by all her 6 children, 9 grandchildren and one great grandchild. She is preceded in death by her husband, John, three sisters and brother. She is the last of her generation. All who knew Mildred know her to have lived her faith, expressed through her love of life, openness to experiences, positive attitude and enjoying each moment fully. She touched the lives of many with her compassion. Her family would like to thank the Driftwood for their care and appreciation of our mother. Mildred and her husband John were active at Holy Cross Church in Santa Cruz, where a memorial service will be held on Saturday, February 12 at 2:30 pm. at Holy Cross Mission (Emmett & School Streets) In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Holy Cross Church.