MARY EVANGELINE LUPRYPA

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MARY EVANGELINE LUPRYPA We regret to announce the passing of our dear mother, Mary Evangeline Luprypa on June 10, 2011 at the age of 84 years. Mary was born in East Selkirk, MB on July 13, 1926. She was predeceased by her husband, John Luprypa in 2002, or Big John as he was known. She is survived by her children Lasha Gooder, Ali (Heinz) Diekert, Lawrence Luprypa, Dorothy McLaren and Nadine Luprypa. She also leaves behind six grandchildren, and is also survived by her sister-in-law Olga Andrewshenko and family. Mom loved music her whole life, singing in choirs and in church. As a teenager, Mary studied choral music and conducting under the renowned Ukrainian choral master and composer, Alexander Koshetz in Winnipeg. After graduating from Happy Thought High School in 1944, she obtained her teaching certificate and taught school in Grahamdale, MB. She loved teaching and her students loved her. In 1946, Mary met a handsome, charming salesman going door-to-door selling insurance and soon they decided to form a partnership in every sense of the word. Mom left her teaching career and went into the restaurant business with Dad, purchasing John's Lunch in Riverton, MB. After that, they transitioned into the hotel business, owning and operating several hotels throughout Manitoba. In 1964, remembering their most enjoyable summer holiday trips to the sunny Okanagan, they left Manitoba for Vernon, deciding to buy an orchard in Coldstream and later, Hegler's Resort (presently Alexander's Pub) on Kalamalka Lake. Mom loved Vernon and said I hope that I can stay here until I die. She got her wish. In retirement, Mom enjoyed crossword puzzles, reading, traveling with Dad to warm destinations, volunteering at the Pro-Life Thrift Shop, singing in choirs, gardening and spending time with family. Mom, you were good at so many things. You gave us a love of reading and an appreciation for classical music. We will miss your smile, wit and delicious home cooked meals. You worked so hard, now rest. A Celebration of Life was held Thursday, June 16. Interment followed at Coldstream Cemetery.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jun 18, 2011