NATALIA ZAHARA

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NATALIA ZAHARA Sadly, we announce the passing of Natalia on Sunday, November 24, 2013 at Grace General Hospital. Natalia was predeceased by her husband Vasyl in 2002. Left to cherish her memory are godson Nick Hawryliw and wife Helen, close friends Lesia and Dave Johns and their children Daniel and Laura. Natalia was born October 4, 1927 in the village of Byda, Kievska Oblast in Ukraine. She lost all members of her immediate family to the Great Famine Genocide of 1932 / 1933, and was left an orphan. A surviving aunt in Kiev took her in, and as Natalia herself once said, "she saved my life". In 1943, the Nazi invasion of Ukraine brought more hardship. Natalia was taken into forced labour in Germany. After the war, time was spent in a camp for displaced persons. In 1948 she and her husband went to England. Here she quickly picked up the English language. Natalia and Vasyl came to Canada in 1953, making Winnipeg their home. She will always be remembered for her thoughtfulness, kindness and generosity. Divine Liturgy will be celebrated on Thursday, November 28 at 10:00 a.m. at Sts. Vladimir and Olga Cathedral, 115 McGregor St. with Rt. Rev. Msgr. Mitrat Michael Buyachok officiating. Interment will follow at All Saints Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of one's choice Forever remembered, dear Natalia. Vichnaya Pam'yat.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Nov 27, 2013