Ryszard (Richard) Fryga

September 14, 1948 – February 22, 2021

 

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Ryszard (Richard) Fryga on February 22 at the age of 73 years.

Ryszard (Richard) Fryga was born in Złotogłowice, Poland to Marta and Ignacy Fryga. He had to leave Poland in 1978 and found his way to Edmonton. Ryszard was an active member of KPN (Confederation for an Independent Poland) and became involved in support of Solidarność where he met his future wife Terese Szlamp. After martial law was declared in Poland on December 13, 1980, Ryszard and Terese participated in a two-week hunger vigil at St. Joseph College Catholic Chapel at the Univesity of Alberta.

Ryszard and Terese were married on February 20, 1982. Pawel was born later that year followed by Maja in 1984. Along with raising two wonderful children, Rysiek was an active member of several Polonia organizations including the Polish Culture Society, the Society of Polish Engineers, Polonia Choir, and the Knights of Columbus.

As Ryszard’s illness advanced, he regretted not being able participate in various Polonia activities and events which he always greatly enjoyed. One of his favourites was visiting the Polish pavilion during Heritage Days at Hawrelak Park.

Towards the end of his life, Ryszard suffered as he became much weaker and finally passed away at home in the early evening of Febrary 22, 2021.

Rysiek is survived by his wife Terese, his two children Paweł and Maja, his nephew Janusz Sowa, and in Poland by nieces Grażyna and Ewelina. On behalf of our family, please accept our most humble and grateful thanks for all your prayers and support. We also wish to thank Connelly McKinley Funeral Home for their professional service in guiding us through this challenging process.

In person Viewing will take place OMI at Our Lady Queen of Poland Church between 9:00 am and 9:45 am on Monday March 1, 2021 for those who wish to say goodbye to Ryszard. Please ensure you bring a mask with you. The funeral Mass will be celebrated by Father Marcin Mironiuk OMI at Our Lady Queen of Poland at 10:00 on Monday March 1, 2021. Due to Covid restrictions, only twenty family members may attend. For those wishing to join the mass service, please access the live stream provided by Our Lady Queen of Poland Church via the following link: //www.youtube.com/MBKP-Edmonton

Following Holy Mass, Ryszard will be laid to rest in Our Lady of Peace Cemetery (4814 Meridian St NW, Edmonton) with 10 family members in attendance.

The honor guard and pall bearers are graciously provided by the Knights of Columbus.