LEONA BREZDEN (BOREYKO)

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LEONA BREZDEN (nee BOREYKO) It is with profound sadness that we regretfully announce the passing of our mother, grandmother, sister and godmother. Peacefully, and surrounded by loved ones, Leona had succumbed to her lengthy and brave battle with cancer at St. Boniface Hospital on Wednesday, April 24, 2002. Leona was born February 16, 1937 in Dauphin, MB. She received her education in Dauphin after which she worked at Mary-Jane Shop until she moved to Winnipeg. Leona was predeceased by her parents, John and Mary Boreyko; sister Grace; and brother William. Left to cherish her wonderful memories are her daughter Leanna (Dennis) Last; son Richard (Anna-Marie) Brezden; grandchildren, Mariah and Justin Brezden; as well as Archie Brezden, father of Leanna and Richard; sisters, Helen Wolfe and Deanna Larose. Leona also leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, cousins and friends. Those who were fortunate enough to have known Leona knew she was a very warm, loving and giving individual. She always had a shoulder to lean on, an ear to bend, a wealth of good advice and was always a pillar of strength when she was in her weakest moments. Leona did not possess an ounce of selfishness. She was there for those who she cared for unconditionally. When the pain of her affliction was unbearable, she would disguise her pain to ease the worry and concern of those closest to her. Leona is best known for her sense of humour, her love of flowers, doll making, an accomplished seamstress and of course her passion for garage sales. Leona was also one of those rare individuals who turned everything she touched into gold. She was famous for her "Green Thumb" being that she could adopt an ailing plant and turn it into a virtual forest. Even those who did not know Leona, will remember her in a slightly different way. She was extremely proficient in the making of wedding gowns and headpieces for brides-to-be. For all those who bore the honour of wearing an exclusive Leona Brezden wedding gown will carry on her memory in years to come. It should be known that Leona was a real "Fire Cracker". A consummate fighter who did not know the meaning of the word "Quit" or "Cant". Once she had it in her mind to do something, you can bet it would be done with excellence and perfection. She refused to let her cancer get the best of her. She would often say, "Im going to fight this thing on my own, nothing can hurt me." Many of us know that Leona had a very difficult and trying life at times, including her health. In many ways, she was blessed with great many gifts, and a perpetual positive outlook on life. She was always the optimist. We will never forget her laugh, smile, and her zest for life. Leona will live on in each and every one of us in many different ways and levels. For all of her pain and suffering she endured during her time here, her reward that awaits her in heaven is far beyond the imagination of any mortal (God has called one of his most prized angels back home.) At Moms request, cremation has taken place and there will be no formal service held. In care of arrangements: EDWARD J. COUTU LTD. 680 Archibald St. 253-5086

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on May 04, 2002