About Us In Memoriam From the founding of the new Holy Family Province in May 2007 through the present day, we have entrusted the souls of these sisters to new life in the Lord. We remember their contributions to our community and our ministries, and we pray they are enjoying their place at the heavenly banquet. 
 Sr. M. Leonille (Stephanie) Balawajder
Nov, 24,1916 — January 29, 2012
Sr. Leonille Balawajder, 95, died Jan. 29, 2012, in the 76th year of her religious life. She was a resident of Holy Family Manor in Pittsburgh.
In 2011, Sr. Leonille celebrated her 75th jubilee of religious life. Here is her story as it appeared in the Summer 2011 edition of Nazareth Connections, the province newsletter:
A sports fan who enjoys reading and sewing, Sr. M. Leonille Balawajder points to a CSFN sister at Holy Family Institute, Emsworth, PA, as major influences on her decision to join the community. Sr. Onufria “took care of the girls” at HFI “and she also taught me to sew.” Sr. Waclawa, another major influence, was one of Sr. Leonille’s high school teachers.
After graduating from Mt. Nazareth Academy in Pittsburgh, Sr. Leonille earned a BSE from St. John College in Cleveland, OH. She ministered at St. Christopher School in Detroit, MI, for 25 years, retiring in 2006. Previously, she taught for more than two decades at St. Stanislaus Parish School in Cleveland.
Her teaching ministry reinforced one of her longest friendships, Sr. Leonille reports. “I had – and still have – a very dear friend whose youngest son” was about to start first grade. “I took him into my classroom, and for that, she was very grateful, and after so many years, we still keep in touch.”
Sr. Leonille loved teaching and enjoys being “engaged with other people. I want to be an example of kindness and love. I’m happy and grateful for all God provides through our community."
 Sr. M. Joseph (Victoria) Plewa
Sept. 1, 1913 — January 11, 2012
Sr. M. Joseph of Jesus - Victoria Plewa, 98, died Tuesday, Jan. 10, at Nazarethville, Des Plaines, IL, in the 83rd year of her religious life.
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