JEAN SLEVA (SLIWA) (KOCHAN)

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JEAN SLEVA (SLIWA) (nee KOCHAN) Heaven grew brighter as our world grew dim on February 2, 2006, when our Mom, Wife and Grandmother peacefully passed away at Seven Oaks Hospital, surrounded by her family. She was 71 years old. Jean was a devoted wife to Walter for 52 years. She was a wonderful mother to her children Debra (Grant), Larry and Colleen (David), and the proudest grandmother of Connor, Kelly and Daniel. She has left us all to mourn her with such heavy hearts, along with many other friends and family. She was predeceased by her father Alex, her mother Mary and brother Mike but is survived by her brother Jerry (Gail), with whom she shared a special bond and friendship. Jean was a special person, who always put the needs of others before her own. She gave generously and greeted everyone with a warm smile. She had a cheeky sense of humour and knew just when to use it. Her favourite pastimes were planning and preparing meals for family gatherings and was always busy in the kitchen, with her specialty being perogies, of course. Her door was always open to those who wanted to drop in for a cup of coffee and a chat. Before doing her most important job in life, (raising her kids), Jean dedicated her services to Eaton's for 25 years. She began in the mail order building and later in life returned to Eaton's to work in the shoe department, then fabrics and notions. She retired in 1995 with wonderful memories of the friends she made while working there. Jean especially enjoyed any time spent with family. She relaxed at the cottage at Gull Lake, where she loved to go blueberry picking for her homemade pies and always looked forward to Thanksgiving and our traditional walks through the woods. We would like to thank Dr. Bhanot and the nursing staff of Seven Oaks Hospital, 3rd Floor-Unit 4, for all their care and attention. A big thank you also goes to the staff of the Geriatric Day Hospital who helped mom get involved in a wonderful program for seniors. It became the highlight of her week. Thank-you to the Dialysis Unit and to Kristen for her special care and to Dr. Lerner and Lidel of the ICU for their care and compassion in mom's last hours. Lastly, a special thank-you to Jerry and Gail for their TLC. Funeral service will be held on Wednesday, February 8 at 2:00 p.m. at Cropo Funeral Chapel, 1442 Main St. Cremation will take place after the service. Interment will be held at a later date at the Lady of Mount Carmel Cemetery at Gull Lake. Although Jean loved flowers, we greatly decline as she would be pleased if well wishers donated in her memory to the Kidney Foundation of Canada, Manitoba Branch. Mom, you were small in stature, but big in heart and courage. May you walk with God and watch over us forever, until we meet again. CROPO FUNERAL CHAPEL 586-8044

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Feb 04, 2006