ANTOSHKA (TONI) BEMBEN

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ANTOSHKA (TONI) BEMBEN January 29, 1932 - December 29, 2012 Peacefully after a brief illness, with her family by her side, Toni passed away on December 29, 2012. She was one month shy of her 81st birthday. Toni was born on January 29, 1932 in Hadashville, MB. She grew up in Winnipeg and Cooks Creek, MB. She spoke often of her long walks and many adventures on her sleigh rides to and from Zora School. Toni was a proud member of the Canadian Air Force in the capacity of a parachute packer. She never lost a jumper she used to say. She met and married Steve Hayduk in 1961. At that time, she moved from Manitoba and became a farm wife in rural Alberta, just outside of the town of Calmar. She often said that those days were the best days of her life. Eugene, her son, was born later that year in December of 1961. While in Calmar, Toni worked at the local meat market and IGA. She made many friends in Calmar and especially enjoyed the company of her lifelong friend Helen Sarnecki. In 1972, Toni moved back to Winnipeg and began her career in the sportswear manufacturing business. She worked at Sportswear Specialties and later, Bonwitt Manufacturing. She travelled often with this work and made many good friends and connections during this time of her life. In 1993, Toni retired to become a full time babysitter to her grandchildren Sydney and Casey. She was an amazing Baba. Her grandchildren often refer to her as our best friend as she was such an integral part of their upbringing. Toni became famous for her perogy business. Perogies by Antoshka was a booming business and she had a very successful drive-through window on Templeton Avenue. The family enjoyed her last batch this Christmas as she, despite her declining health, managed to make six dozen for us to enjoy. In her later years, Toni enjoyed time with her friends from the Legion and her pals from Templeton and from 1080 Powers. She was a staunch advocate for the downtrodden and had a strong sense of empathy for those in need. It is no surprise that her son became a social worker. Toni loved spending time with her extended family and had many fond memories on Uncle Doug's farm. The family often spoke with great fondness of Toni's, now famous, horse ride after a few beverages during a family gathering. Toni is survived by her son Eugene (Wendy), daughter Pam, grandchildren Sydney, Casey, Andrea and Jesse, sister Evelyne, brothers Frank and Bobby, in-laws Neil, Pat and Uncle Doug. She is also survived by many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband Steve, her parents Jessie and John, brother Johnny, sister Anne and nephew Gordie. The family would like to especially thank the nurses in Seven Oaks Hospital, 5th Floor, Unit 6 for their incredible care and support during this difficult time. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society or to a charity of one's choice. A celebration of Toni's life will be held this Saturday, January 5, 2013 at the Royal Canadian Legion, 1748 Main Street at 2:00 p.m. Minister Jim Hatherly will be officiating. Glen Eden Memorial Gardens will be Toni's final resting place. A private family interment will take place at a later date.
Publish Date: Jan 3, 2013

ANTOSHKA (TONI) BEMBEN Peacefully on Saturday, December 29, 2012, after a brief illness, Toni passed away with her family by her side. Full obituary to follow on Thursday, January 3, 2013.
Publish Date: Jan 2, 2013

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jan 03, 2013