LINDA MARGARET KOHUT (CHAZE)

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LINDA MARGARET KOHUT (nee CHAZE) September 17, 1947 - November 15, 2015 On an exceptionally warm and sunny November 15, 2015 our beautiful Linda beat cancer. She let go of its hold and moved peacefully into that good night. Beating cancer is not about living or dying; beating cancer is about the attitude you take, and Linda was an example of optimism and strength at its finest. She was an inspiration, a graceful warrior and an immense force for good. She fought so hard, for so long, for so many. Linda is survived by husband Edwin Kohut, whom she married on December 20, 1975 at the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral; children, Tannis Kohut (Ryan Ahoff), Jeffrey Kohut (Annette) and Alanna Kohut Stein; grandchildren Ben, Katelyn, Olivia and Emmett; brother David Chaze (Lise); Ed's siblings, Elsie Wright (Bill), Kathy Arduini (Randy), and Bob Kohut (Marge); nieces and nephews Brian Chaze (Ainslie), Graham Chaze (Briana), Crystal Smitzniuk (Chris), Candace Kozak (Brent), Nicole Boch (Jeff), Jane Haider (Daniel), Nicholas Arduini; and their children as well as many other relatives and life-long friends. Linda was predeceased by her mother Margaret in 1995; her father Edgar in 2010; and her niece Erin Chaze in 1982. Linda was a social butterfly (and she loved butterflies), nurturing many deep and meaningful relationships throughout her personal and professional life. She had too many dear friends to count and belonged to numerous community and social groups. She was a dedicated member of The Church At Pine Ridge. So dedicated in fact, that she amassed a personal archive of every sermon (with notes) as well as the lyrics and music for every praise and worship song she liked. Her faith sustained her throughout her illness: she often reminded us that God is good - all the time! Linda attended St. James Collegiate and went on to study at the University of Manitoba where she attained her B. Ed, Pre-M Ed. and P.B.C.E. Linda taught throughout the province, mainly in the Lord Selkirk School Division. She was an invaluable co-worker: for anyone needing resources, she had them in her extensive files. If you needed help or advice, you went to Linda first. Linda retired in 2004. With a passion for people and a thirst for knowledge, Linda was a true adventurer who loved to travel and see new parts of the world. We still talk about her cliff jumping in Mexico a few short years ago as the locals chanted 'Grandma! Grandma!' Linda loved flowers, gardens and nature and always had an immaculate, beautiful yard. She has been propagating her 'Legacy Lilies' for a few years, which she enjoyed giving to friends and family and seeing them bloom into magnificent six-foot plants. Linda always let those around her know how much she loved and appreciated them. It was in her nature to see goodness and potential in others. Linda always put her heart, mind and body to work for the greater good of those around her. Even while battling cancer, she was the pillar of support for many, putting their needs ahead of her own. She will be missed dearly. May she rest in peace and may her memory be eternal. The family would like to thank all the dedicated professionals who looked after Linda throughout her long battle with cancer. We are grateful for their excellent care, allowing her these extra years to cherish with her array of friends and family. She truly adored her grandchildren; they brought her such joy and pride. Please join us on Saturday, November 28 at The Church At Pine Ridge on Garven Road. The family will greet guests at 10:00 a.m. The Memorial Service will begin at 11:00 a.m., followed by Linda's Purple Party to celebrate her life. Please honour her wishes by wearing something purple. "The showers of God's blessings cause the seeds of His love to grow in our lives."

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Nov 23, 2015