Obituary of Wilda Helen Andriesky
Andriesky (Harker), Wilda Helen
1925 – 2021
On September 19, 2021 Wilda in her 96th year passed away peacefully after a short illness at The Waterford Retirement Residence, Kingston Ontario
Wilda was born on November 28, 1925 in Rousseau, Ontario and grew up in Millbrook Ontario with her parents Michael and Emma Harker and her siblings.
Wilda was a strong academic student in grade school continuing through high school .
Moving to Kingston to attend Queen’s University Wilda met the love of her life, Mitchell Andriesky, whom she married in1961.
Wilda became a Clinical Psychologist working mainly with children who she adored.
She earned a earn a Bachelors degree (honours) in Arts & Science in 1959 and a Masters Degree in Arts & Science in 1961.
She earned tenure at Queens University and became an Associate Professor in Psychology.
Wilda was a clinical psychologist with the Public School Board specializing in children’s issues.
Wilda also had a private practise in clinical psychology.
Together with her husband Mitch, they supported many students over the years through bursaries to support grad students through university and support for the Ban Righ Centre. In fact, that labour will continue in the form of a bequest to the University.
Wilda has received many prestigious awards in her lifetime including:
1956 Susan Near Scholarship in Psychology
1956 Sir Wilfred Laurier Scholarship
1957 University Scholarship.
1957 Eliza Fitzgerald Scholarship
1958 Rueben Wells Leonard Scholarship
1958 Prince of Wales Prize, Medal in Psychology and the RS McLaughlin Fellowship.
1988,1990 & 1991 Inclusion in the International Women’s Who’s Who Book
2013 QUAA Branch Marsha Lampman Award with her husband Mitch.
2019 Queen’s University Alumni Award marking over 60 years since graduation
Wilda was not boastful or attempting to earn credit for herself over others.
She was known to be calm, caring and capable.
Her caregivers at The Waterford Retirement Residence dubbed her the sweetest and kindest person they knew.
Wilda will be missed.
She also left behind family in England and friends as considered family
Janice (Hoba) Gilmour, Mark Kallevig, Cecil Leonard, Martha Downey, Steven and Maryanne Silver and Blaine Rosamund.
In keeping with Wilda’s wishes cremation has taken place at James Reid Crematorium. Unfortunately due to Covid-19 protocols a private memorial service will be held with RSVP invitation only.
Donations would be kindly appreciated to the Queen’s University Mitchell and Wilda Andriesky Award or to the charity of your choice.
