OLGA PETRASH

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OLGA PETRASH Peacefully, with her children at her side, Olga Petrash (nee Tansowny), age 80, passed away on November 8, 2010 at the Oakview Extendicare Nursing Home. Olga was predeceased by her father Daniel Tansowny, mother Anne Welycki, half brother Stephen Huzil, and husband Matthew. She is survived by daughter Delia (Fletcher), son Alan (Sharon) and her grandchildren Jennie, Matthew, Riva, Evan and Liam. Mom (Olga) was born in 1930 in Winnipeg to Anne Huzil and Daniel Tansowny, and lived in the city for eight full decades. In her younger years she was active in the Ukrainian cultural community through the Association of United Ukrainian Canadians (AUUC). It was there she was recognized for her talent as a singer. Olga competed successfully in city wide vocal competitions. She sang as soloist for the AUUC choir and performed at local troupe shows with a quartet near the end of the war. Mom also was a member of the Mandolin Orchestra. It was at the AUUC hall that she met her husband Matthew, and they were married in 1949. In addition to raising a family, mom returned to school to earn her secretarial diploma in 1962, and worked outside the home for about 10 years. Olga took great pleasure in spending time with her family and good friends. She was remarkably talented in the practical arts - a great and adventurous cook, and superb at knitting and crocheting. Gardening, especially flowers, was her passion and the inspiration behind the wealth of horticultural expertise she accumulated over the years. Mom was also an avid reader and took a keen interest in politics and social issues. Family and friends are invited to a celebration in Olga's honour on Monday, November 15, 1:00 p.m. at Cropo Funeral Chapel, 1442 Main St. Donations in Olga's name can be made to the Canadian Cancer Society. A special thanks goes to the caring and attentive nurses on the 2nd floor east wing at Oakview. CROPO FUNERAL CHAPEL 586-8044

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Nov 12, 2010