ELEANOR KAPITANY

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ELEANOR KAPITANY May 3, 1925 - July 19, 2011 Peacefully in God's hands, after a brief hospital stay, Eleanor passed away at the age of 86 years young . Born in Regina and moving to Winnipeg in 1935, El's life was a love song passionately lived with exuberance, boundless energy and unlimited love for God and people. She embraced and adored life and its adventures with profound gratitude, finding beauty and humour to the last moments of her life. A heart of gold, she encouraged others with kindness, grand generosity and optimism. With dedication and unstoppable stamina El proudly accomplished a most amazing feat - working full time 54 and a half years with the T. Eaton Co. serving over three generations. Aptly put at her 50th Anniversary, Kap could make everyone feel welcome and the most commonplace events more fun than a Ukranian wedding . Ever the consummate host, El was blessed with a remarkable gift of locution and wit that captivated any crowd, leaving them in stitches. Her family and friends always counted themselves tremendously lucky to be invited to any party or dinner she would host (and there were many) filled with a banquet of great food, love and laughter. The World's Coolest Aunt'- forever unconventional- El was deeply devoted to her kids - nieces Kelly and Meg McEnturff, whom she resided with the last 25 years. El always said If I had to spend my life on a desert island - it would be perfect and complete if I only had the two of you. Never out of her heart, El also shared a long distance love affair with nieces Deb and Shauneen McEnturff of New Westminster, BC and was very proud of, and loved Kel's partner Darryl whose shenanigans always brought her laughter. Unable to say no , and ever-armed with a pocketful of forbidden treats, even the family's dogs were showered with her love. A devout Roman Catholic, El had the joy of attending mass at St. Joseph's Parish for over 50 years, as well as Blessed John xxiii Parish the following 20. She leaves a legacy of unwavering faith, indomitable spirit, bravery, integrity, trust and unfailing kindness as she faced undaunted and rose above every challenge and adversity of her life with dignity, compassion, fearlessness and grace. El was predeceased by her beloved sisters and brothers-in-law Joan and Pat McEnturff, Angela and Ernie Nerfa, Dorothy, and brother and sister-in-law Alex and Mary Kapitany. Kelly and Meg wish to express our deepest gratitude for the wonderful compassionate care provided by Sandra McCrea, Colin Hall and all of the home care staff of the past two years, notably Sylvia, Leah, Wendy, Marietta, Jennifer and Sharon. Our hearts are indebted to Dr. Manishen, Dr. D. Hedden, Dr. Li, as well as all of the nurses and staff of St. Boniface Hospital for their expert care, kindness and assistance extended to Eleanor. Heartfelt thanks also to Gary McCallum and all those whose love and prayers brought joy and strength to El through the last four years, we love you all. Donations may be made in Eleanor's memory in support of Blessed John xxiii Parish, 3390 Portage Ave., Winnipeg, MB R3K 0Z3. Funeral Mass will be held on Friday, August 5 at 11:00 a.m., at Blessed John xxiii, Roman Catholic Church with Fr. G. Langevin officiating. Reception to follow. Private interment at Assumption Cemetery. May flights of Angels sing thee to thy rest. Go in peace, sweetest Aunty. We love you. Til we meet again. Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. (Matt 5:8)

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jul 23, 2011