WINNIFRED ESTHER SWERDYLIAK (COLE)

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WINNIFRED ESTHER SWERDYLIAK (nee COLE) On June 6, 2010, at the age of 90, Winnifred (Winnie as she was known) passed away peacefully at Seven Oaks Hospital with her children and granddaughter Sarah by her side. Winnie was predeceased by her husband George and beloved granddaughter Kimberly, her two brothers, three sisters, and her dear friend Eileen. She leaves behind her children: Ellen (Dwayne), Susan (Larry), Ken (Thorey) and April. Also loving grandchildren: Kathy, Ian, Heather, Lee, Kassandra, Adele, Jessica, TJ, Emma, Kenneth, and Sarah; and great-grandchildren Ozzy, Maddie, Kendra, Joshua, Jaxon, and newborn twins Cole and Khloe. Winnie was born August 3, 1919 in Renfrew, Ontario, and spent a happy childhood in Dryden and in 1944 moved to Winnipeg, where she lived all of her adult life. Her favourite job was working at Eaton's Mail Order in the toy department where she made lifelong friends Mattie, Doreen, Marion and Alma with whom she shared weekly lunch dates right into her later years. She loved to garden, her flowers were her pride and joy. She also liked to read; knit; pick strawberries; watch Jeopardy, hockey and figure skating on TV; travel and spend time at her Gimli cottage. Like her own mum, Winnie was a real homebody and family was the most important thing to her. She loved spending time with her grandchildren who fondly remember her sweet nature. She had a very strong but private faith in God and welcomed visits in hospital from her former pastor Neil Block. She was a strong, independent woman and during her brief illness showed an example of grace, quiet dignity and patience that her children will remember always. Thanks Mum! Funeral service will take place at Chapel Lawn, 4000 Portage Avenue on Tuesday, June 15 at 10:00 a.m. with interment immediately following. In lieu of flowers, if so desired, donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society or a charity of your choice. We love her, yes no one can tell, How much we loved her nor how well; God loved her too and He knew best, So He took her home with Him to rest.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jun 09, 2010