ARVA SHEWCHUK (STEWART)

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ARVA SHEWCHUK (nee STEWART) It is with deep sadness we announce the passing of Arva Shewchuk on December 26, 2013. Arva will be lovingly remembered by her daughter Sherratt Moffatt (Gord), grandsons Steven and Stewart, stepson Michael Shewchuk (Marcy), as well as cherished nieces and nephews. Arva was predeceased by her husband Mike in March 1984, her parents, J.C. and Beatrice Stewart, and five siblings, Keith, Morna, Johnny, Barclay, and Mary (Trixie). Arva was born on March 20, 1924 in Pilot Mound, Manitoba. After completing high school, she attended the University of Toronto where she graduated with a Bachelor of Physical and Health Education degree in 1946. After university, Arva had a varied and challenging career journey. In her first position, with The Anglican Church of Canada, she travelled throughout the Western provinces developing and leading programs for young women in church parishes and in summer camps. Arva found the experience very rewarding and a great learning opportunity. In 1948, Arva commenced work for the newly formed Provincial Department of Health, Physical Fitness Office to further physical fitness and recreation. During this time, she was active as a folk dance adjudicator throughout the province. Arva also taught physical education for teacher trainees at the former Provincial Normal School during the school year and at the summer programs. Arva married Mike in August 1952. They made Winnipeg their home and Arva continued to further the development of physical education in the province. Later, from 1957 to 1967, Arva worked for the St. Vital YMCA as Physical Education Director for women and girls. Once again, Arva took a personal interest in promoting leadership skills in young women and fondly remembered her work with the YMCA Junior Leaders group. In 1968, Arva joined the Federal Public Service in beginning her new career as a Canada Manpower Counselor providing her great satisfaction finding people employment. Her career progressed into staff training and development with the former Departments of Employment and Immigration and Transport Canada. Arva retired from the Public Service in 1984 and thoroughly enjoyed her retirement years. She traveled the world and particularly enjoyed cruises and elder hostels. Arva remained very active enjoying line and pattern dancing and, for a period of time, Saturday night dancing at the St. James Legion. She had a keen interest in figure skating and curling attending numerous national events with long time friends. Arva was also interested in the arts and was an avid supporter of the Royal Winnipeg Ballet. She took great interest in current events and the world around her. Sunday night family dinners would not be complete without discussion and debate on political and social issues. Arva was a faithful member of Holy Trinity Anglican Church and remained a member of the Chancel Guild until her passing. Arva was an active and vibrant individual and will be truly missed. The funeral service will be held at Holy Trinity Anglican Church, Donald and Graham, on Thursday January 2, 2014 at 11:00 a.m., Father Henry Falconer officiating. Refreshments will be served in the parish hall immediately after the Service. Interment will follow at Chapel Lawn, 4000 Portage Ave. at 1:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Outreach Mission Fund, Holy Trinity Anglican Church, 256 Smith St., Winnipeg, MB. For those who wish to sign the online Guest Book please visit our website. Chapel Lawn www.chapellawn.ca 885-9715

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Dec 31, 2013