SHIRLEY RIOPKA

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SHIRLEY RIOPKA It is with unspeakable sadness that we must announce the peaceful passing of our Mom and Nana, Shirley Riopka, on August 26, 2011 at St. Boniface Hospital. Mom will be missed and forever cherished by her son Gary (Margaret) and daughter Cindy (Larry), grandchildren Amber (Dylann), Colton and Courtney, and her furry family of Becky, Mandy and Zoey. She will also be missed by her sisters Dolly (Nick), Ramona (Gord), brothers Al (Marion) and John (Pat), sister-in-law Kay, several nieces and nephews, and many long time dear friends. Shirley was predeceased by her husband Mike in 1987, parents Mary and James and siblings Mary, Vic, Jim, Albert, Ruby and Ken. Mom was born May 23, 1934 in Winnipeg. She married Mike in 1954 and they started their family. She worked at several jobs, however, became a full-time Mom when the kids arrived. She spent numerous hours working on Cindy's baton costumes and travelling with her to competitions all over North America. She was a long time Blue Bomber season ticket holder with Gary and Margaret. She enjoyed all types of entertainment and loved going to concerts, Rainbow Stage and every musical she could. She loved travelling and enjoyed many trips to Hawaii, Nashville, and Palm Springs to name a few, but the most important part was being there with her family. She spent a great deal of time with her friends, shopping, going for coffee and lunches. Her weekly outings with her childhood friend Rita lasted over decades. Her dog Becky was her loyal companion and the two could be spotted walking all over Westwood. The apple of her eyes were her grandchildren. Nana never missed a dance recital/competition/workshop and she would literally glow when Amber and Courtney performed on stage. She was there to cheer on Colton at his hockey games and every goal he got was always a Nana goal . She was so proud of each and everyone one of their accomplishments and was always their biggest fan. Although Mom was sick the last six months, she still enjoyed being with the family around the pool and we will treasure those times. Mom went through so much to try and stay with us, and would have continued fighting until God decided it was time for her to stop suffering. We would like to thank the staff at St. Boniface Hospital, especially Amber and Miriam on 6E and Alix, Michelle, Lynn and Dr. Garland in the ICU for their extraordinary care and compassion. Mom (Nana) was such a big presence and important part of everything in our lives, it is heartbreaking to try and think how we will carry on without her, but she will live forever in our hearts. Please enjoy the peace Mom that you so well deserve. Memorial service will be held on Thursday, September 1 at 10:00 a.m., at Chapel Lawn Funeral Home, 4000 Portage Avenue, Winnipeg, with Rev. Fr. Vince Herner presiding. Donations may be made in Shirley's memory to the Winnipeg Humane Society. Chapel Lawn www.chapellawn.mb.ca 885-9715

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As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Aug 31, 2011