It is with a heavy heart that I need to inform you that our Grade 3 Teacher, Ms. Sharon Ocaya-Gamon, passed away suddenly over the winter holiday. Ms. Ocaya-Gamon was a dedicated educator in our elementary school for 22 years and is fondly remembered by students and families across both the elementary and upper schools. She was not only a teacher but a beloved friend and mentor to us all.

As many of you know, Ms. Ocaya-Gamon had been facing a courageous battle with cancer since last year. However, the sudden decline in her health was unexpected. On January 3, she passed away due to complications from pneumonia. While we thought we had more time with her, we take comfort in knowing that she is at peace.

Throughout her health journey, she demonstrated incredible strength, perseverance, and an unwavering spirit. Her positive outlook and radiant smile touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. Despite the challenges she faced, she continued to inspire her students and colleagues until her final days, bringing joy and warmth to our school community. The void her absence leaves in our hearts is profound.

We extend our deepest condolences to her husband, Mr. Lech Ocaya-Gamon, and her daughter, Sabina Ocaya-Gamon. Lech has asked me to convey his gratitude to our entire school community for the generous support and love provided to Sharon and her family. As a community, let us come together to support them during this difficult time.

Ms. Ocaya-Gamon’s legacy will forever remain in the hearts of her students, colleagues, and all of us who had the honor to know her. She was a beacon of hope and positivity, and her impact on ASW will endure.

Funeral and Memorial Arrangements

The family invites those who wish to pay their respects to join them for the funeral mass and interment.

Funeral Mass

Date: Tuesday, January 13th

Time: 1:30 pm

Location: Catholic Church (Order of Dominicans) at Dominikańska 2, Warsaw (Służew). There is a parking lot available on the church grounds.

Details: The Mass will be celebrated by Father Dawidowski from Warsaw’s English Speaking Parish.

Interment Following the Mass

The family will travel to the Cmentarz Północny (Northern Cemetery) for the interment.

Time: Please arrive by 3:00 pm.

Meeting Point: Main Gate.

Address: Kazimierza Wóycickiego 14, 01-938 Warszawa.

Flowers and Donations: The family has kindly requested that attendees refrain from bringing large floral arrangements. Instead, they would prefer that donations be made to causes close to Sharon’s heart, particularly those supporting autism and disabilities. However, as Sharon dearly loved roses, a single beautiful rose would be a welcome and touching tribute.

Thank you for joining us in honoring Ms. Ocaya-Gamon’s life. Let us continue to celebrate her memory and the love she shared with us all.

Dr. Michelle Kleiss

ASW Director