It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Fr. Tadeusz Kowalczyk, CSMA, who departed this life on 20th of December 2024, at the age of 91, in the Michaelite Fathers’ residence in Melrose, Canada.

His journey was one of deep faith, tireless service, and unwavering commitment to God’s calling. Born on June 3, 1933, in the small village of Zabrodzie near Ostrołęka, Poland, young Tadeusz grew up in a devout and humble family. After completing primary school in his hometown, he answered God’s call early in life, joining the Michaelite Fathers in Miejsce Piastowe. It was there, in 1952, that he began his postulancy and novitiate, laying the foundation for a life dedicated to God and His people. 

In 1953, Fr. Tadeusz made his temporary vows, and just three years later, he professed his perpetual vows. That same year, he graduated from high school in Bydgoszcz. During this time, he demonstrated a servant's heart, taking on roles such as manager in Struga and caretaker of Michaelite houses in Kraków-Olsza and Pawlikowice. 

His academic journey began in 1958 at the Institute of Theology of the Vincentian Fathers in Kraków. However, his studies were interrupted during his fourth year due to a serious illness. Despite these challenges, Fr. Tadeusz’s resilience and faith carried him through, and in 1966, he was ordained to the priesthood—a moment that marked the fulfillment of his long-held dream to serve Christ and the Church. 

His first assignment as a priest was as a hospital chaplain in Kraków’s Prądnik hospital (now John Paul II Hospital). His compassionate ministry brought solace and hope to countless patients and their families. 

In 1972, Fr. Tadeusz embarked on a new chapter of his ministry, traveling to the United States. A year later, he arrived in Canada, where he devoted himself to serving Polish communities in Hamilton, London, Windsor, Sarnia, and beyond. His pastoral care and dedication to learning English allowed him to connect deeply with the people he served. In 1978, he took on a temporary assignment in an English-speaking parish in Chatham, followed by 15 years as a hospital chaplain in Sault Ste. Marie (1979–1994). Even in retirement, his zeal for service remained strong, and he served as pastor of a parish in Sault Ste. Marie from 1997 to 2000. 

For the past two decades, Fr. Tadeusz made his home in Melrose, where he continued to serve quietly and faithfully, assisting at Our Lady of Częstochowa Parish in London. His presence was a blessing to all who encountered him—a priest of humility, wisdom, and gentle kindness. 

Fr. Tadeusz's life was marked by perseverance through hardship, a profound love for God, and an unwavering dedication to the mission of the Church. Despite his health challenges, he never wavered in his vocation, finding strength in prayer and the Eucharist. 

May Fr. Tadeusz now rest in the loving embrace of the God he served so faithfully. May he intercede for us, his Michaelite brothers and all those he ministered to during his long and fruitful life. Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. 

Visitors will be received in the O’Neil Funeral Home, 350 William St., London on Sunday, December 29, 2024 from 1:00 - 5:00 p.m. The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in Our Lady of Czestochowa Church, 419 Hill St., on Monday, December 30, 2024 at 10:00 a.m.