Born Nadzieja Maria Szyszka in Poltava, Ukraine on January 10, 1925, to Simonis and Olgae (Narizna), Nadia Kicner Szyszka passed away peacefully in her 100th year on May 11, 2025.

Wife of the late Edmund Kicner (1995). Beloved mother to Walter. Cherished grandmother, affectionately known as “Bubie,” to Tamara LaBute (Brian) and Natalie Windich (John), and proud great-grandmother to Ryan Kicner, Scarlett Windich, Daniel, and Brianna LaBute.

Following the hardships of World War II, Nadia, Edmund, and Walter immigrated to Canada in 1950, settling in Burlington, Ontario, where they would build a new life.

Nadia worked her entire career as a Quality Control Inspector at Bonar & Bemis Packaging in Burlington, retiring in 1990 at the age of 65. She enjoyed travel to Cuba, Florida, and Hawaii and took great pride in hosting family holidays with her delicious Ukrainian and Polish cuisine.

She was a devoted member of St. Gabriel’s Roman Catholic Church, where she attended Polish Mass every Sunday, and a dedicated volunteer with the Polish Ladies and Seniors Club at the Burlington Polish Hall.

Nadia was the matriarch and rock of her family—her strength, generosity, and wisdom shaped generations. She taught her family to work hard, give selflessly, and cherish those closest to the heart.

Visitation will be held at Smith’s Funeral Home, 1167 Guelph Line, Burlington on Thursday, May 15, 2025, from 6:00–8:00 PM. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Gabriel’s Catholic Church, 2261 Parkway Drive, Burlington on Friday, May 16, 2025, at 10:00 AM. Private interment to follow at Holy Sepulchre Catholic Cemetery.

Memories and notes of condolence may be shared at Smith’s Funeral Home.