Genevieve Wala, 100, of Mansfield, passed away April 24 at Waterford, where she resided following hip surgery. She was the daughter of Clementine and Alexander Bozymski. Genevieve (Jenny) was born on May 9, 1923 in Russia and in 1929 the family immigrated to the USA following the communist turmoil in Russia.
Jenny graduated from St. Peter High School and worked in the office of Ohio Brass, the Auto Club under John Berger, and she was secretary to Oka Nichols of State Farm Insurance. Jenny married Stanley Wala in 1951 and had an exemplary marriage until his death in 2004. They were famous for their Polka Dancing and kindness to so many. They adopted Stanley’s step niece, Ann Wala who arrived from Poland in 1960. Both parents were very supportive of Ann’s activities. Jenny enjoyed helping serve the students on the lunch line in the cafeteria. She served as a room mother, helped guide Girl Scouts with Stella Sutter. She volunteered at the Renaissance Theater, helped with the OAEF, and helped seat hundreds of children who attended the Children Theater productions. For over 46 years she helped with the many bake sales at St. Peter’s and took pride in braiding the popular poticas (nut rolls). Jenny, Stanley, and Ann always wanted to give back to their community in gratitude for the many blessings they received in their adopted country.
Jenny always found time for her grandchildren and great grandchildren whom she adored and of whom she was so proud. She loved singing in the choir under Mr. Johnson. She appreciated her many friends and was grateful for the kindness of Mr. Smith. The family is grateful to the staff of the Waterford and Gentiva Hospice for the wonderful care they gave not only Jenny, but also her sister.
In addition to her parents and husband, Jenny was also preceded in death by her siblings Tony, Val, Eugene, and Eileen.
She is survived by her daughter Ann (Terry) Brown; brother Edward (Kris) Bozymski; grandchildren Alex (Aimee) Brown, Ben (Angela) Brown, Jennifer Carter; and grandchildren Carissa, Hanna, Jessica, Zack, Paige, Bronson, Benson.
Calling hours will be held at St. Peter’s Catholic Church, 60 S. Mulberry Street, on Monday, April 29, 2024 from 10-11 followed by a Funeral Mass at 11. Burial will be at Mansfield Catholic Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Msgr. Dunn Fund, St. Peter’s Church, or St. Peter’s School.
Herlihy Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.
www.herlihyfh.com
Funeral Home: Herlihy Funeral Home
Website: www.herlihyfh.com