It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Zuzana Ruzena Manduch on April 14, 2025, at Toronto General Hospital, at the age of 76. She passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loved ones.
Zuzana is lovingly remembered by her children Marosh, Richard, and Zuzka (Darin), and cherished grandchildren Owen and Hannah. She is also survived by her sisters Maria (Jozef) and Jana (Paul), brother-in-law Milan, many beloved nieces and nephews, and dear friends Marian and Stan Javor. Zuzana was predeceased by her mother Maria Polomska, father Jan Polomsky, and her beloved sister Eva Bohunska.
Born in Bratislava, Slovakia, on August 9, 1948, Zuzana had a lifelong bond with her classmates from her school years in Mathematics. She earned a Doctorate in Mathematics, Psychology, and Political Science from Comenius University and became a highly respected mathematics professor. Zuzana’s passion for teaching and her dedication to her students were well known and admired.
In 1986, Zuzana immigrated to Canada with her three children in search of a better life. She opened a daycare in her home, nurturing and caring for many children, with the help of her mother, affectionately known as “Babinka.” Later, she managed a family-owned variety store for over a decade, becoming a beloved member of her community.
Zuzana’s greatest joy came from spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren. Her home was always filled with love, laughter, and the delicious aromas of her cooking and baking. She enjoyed gardening, playing canasta, following politics, and watching Turkish TV shows. Despite facing many health challenges throughout her life, Zuzana showed remarkable resilience, always supporting her family with warmth and grace.
In her final years, Zuzana was in and out of hospitals and spent the last four months of her life at Toronto General Hospital. Despite her struggles, she remained full of warmth, gratitude, and her signature kindness. She became affectionately known as “the chocolate lady” for her habit of sharing chocolates with those who cared for her.
Zuzana’s legacy of love, strength, and generosity will live on in the hearts of her children, grandchildren, extended family, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the UHN Foundation (Peter Munk Cardiac Centre) in gratitude for the compassionate care Zuzana received. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
For donations, please visit the UHN Foundation website.
Online condolences may be shared with the family at McEachnie Funeral Home.
