MEROSLAWA HORBAS

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MEROSLAWA HORBAS It is with deep sadness the family of Meroslawa Horbas announces her passing on February 18, 2010. Merle was predeceased by her parents John and Mary Bech, her sister Anne, and brother Peter. She is survived by her husband of 55 years, Edward, her son Donald (Catherine), daughter Darlene, grandchildren Steven and Chelsea, brother Nick (Mary), sisters Polly, Dorothy, Helen, and Violet, and her many beloved nieces and nephews. Merle was born on June 25, 1931, and grew up in the small farming community of Carlowrie. She graduated from St. Andrew's College, Winnipeg, in 1949, and took her teacher training at the Provincial Normal School in 1950-1951. Her 40-year teaching career started at Lilydale School, where she taught Grades one to eight in a one-room schoolhouse. After marriage in 1954, Merle moved to the Horbas family farm in Libau. She taught multi-grade classes at Sheffield, Brookside, Libau East, and Libau West Schools. In 1969 the family moved to Selkirk. Merle taught Grade One at Devonshire School, until the staff moved to Robert Smith School. Merle took university courses throughout her teaching career, and obtained her Bachelor of Education Degree from the U of W in 1981. She continued teaching Grade One until her retirement in 1991. Merle's cherished grandchildren, Steven and Chelsea, arrived after retirement, and gave her a new role as Baba . Merle attended concerts, school activities, and sporting events as they grew up, always taking pride in their accomplishments. Prior to her illness she was able to attend their High School Graduations. Merle enjoyed travelling across Canada and the U.S. with her family and friends. She served as Secretary-Treasurer of St. Joseph's Polish National Catholic Church in Libau, and was a member of the Over 60 Club at the Selkirk Legion. Merle was an avid gardener, and always looked forward to mushroom picking season. We will all miss her ethnic cooking and the amazing desserts she prepared. One of her favourite past times was Scrabble (till all hours of the night) with anyone who would dare to challenge her. The family would like to thank the doctors and nurses at the Rehabilitation Hospital in Winnipeg, the Selkirk General Hospital, the Home-Care staff and workers of the Interlake Regional Health Authority, and the many friends and neighbours who gave so much care and support during her last days with us. Special thanks also to Tammy and Ramona for being there. A memorial service will be held in the Gilbart Funeral Chapel in Selkirk on Saturday, February 27 at 11:00 a.m. with The Very Rev. W. Cwieka officiating. Interment of ashes will take place at a later date in the Polish Pioneer Cemetery in Libau, MB. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Cancer-Care Manitoba. Gilbart Funeral Home, Selkirk, in care of arrangements.

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As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Feb 22, 2010