Dr. Edward Rzadki (standing second from left) at a Building Planning Committee meeting for Copernicus Lodge in the mid-1970’s at the Polish Credit Union
Dr. Edward Rzadki: Saying Yes to Father Smith’s vision
Dr. Edward Rzadki–one of Copernicus Lodge’s founding members–still remembers the day when Father Michael Smith knocked on his farmhouse door near Collingwood, asking for support.
“We’re starting a lodge for Polish seniors. We need $5,000,” Father Smith said.
“You got it,” Dr. Rzadki replied without thinking twice. That quick “yes” came easily because Father Smith was a lifelong mentor who Dr. Rzadki trusted completely.
“Father Smith was a great salesman, but he didn’t have to be persuasive. Who would say no to Father Smith?”
This trust had been built over a lifetime. Dr. Rzadki met Father Smith at St. Stanislaus Church, where the priest used to pull his ears when he was an altar boy. Their paths crossed again when Edward volunteered with the Catholic Youth Organization, selling pop at Sunday dances. Father Smith’s influence continued through Edward’s university years at St. Michael’s College, where the Oblates helped shape his life, further deepening his faith and values.
“The Oblates and Felician Sisters were the foundation of the Polish community back then,” recalls Dr. Rzadki’s wife, Stella. “They gave spiritual guidance, social support, and a sense of belonging. The church was at the centre of everything. When Father Smith asked for help, people answered because of all the work that came before.”
Dr. Rzadki wasn’t the only one shaped by this influence. Father Smith gathered a circle of thirty Polish-Canadian professionals—doctors, lawyers, engineers, and business leaders—to help found Copernicus Lodge. Many were first generation Canadians who had built careers while staying connected to their Polish heritage. Together, they formed the first board.
Over the years, Dr. Rzadki’s commitment to Father Smith’s vision extended far beyond his initial $5,000 donation. As one of the founding board members, he often stepped in to calm heated debates between strong personalities. “Take over,” Father Smith would tell him, knowing that Edward’s training as a psychiatrist could steady the room.
Later, Edward served on the Quality Assurance Committee, helping ensure residents received the best care possible. Years later, his own mother spent her final months at the Lodge, receiving the same compassionate care he helped support.
From those early days, the Lodge has grown beyond what those founding donors could have imagined. Now, it includes independent living apartments, long-term care, and vibrant community spaces like the recently renovated library where residents gather for cultural events and movie nights.
Today, Dr. Rzadki takes quiet pride in having played a part in this remarkable growth. Even at 91, Dr. Rzadki still believes in the power of saying “yes” when your community calls.
