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LENA SHEWCHUK 1931 - 2016 With sadness and love and gratitude for a life of loyalty, faith, kindness and strength, the family of Lena Shewchuk (nee Nykolaishen) announces her passing on Wednesday, December 14, 2016 at Riverview Health Centre, with her son Dwight by her side. Lena will live in the hearts of her beloved husband Michael, daughters Geri (Ken Porath) and Kathy (Bob Ramsay), son Dwight (Becky), grandchildren Jason (Jenna), Ali (Scott), John (Niki), Charles, Jennifer (Barrett) and Elizabeth (Dillon), and great-grandchildren baby Calvin, Ella, Brynn, Mielah, Katherine, Brooklyn, Barrett and Grace. Cherishing their memories of Lena are her siblings Vicky (Nick), Elizabeth and Robert (Wendy), brother-in-law Peter (Stella), and many nieces and nephews, relatives and friends. She was predeceased by her parents Harry and Cassie Nykolaishen, parents-in-law John and Mary Shewchuk, brothers and sisters-in-law Peter and Margaret Hnatuk, Elias and Rose Shewchuk, and Leonard Antonation. Lena was born in Gilbert Plains, MB on January 14, 1931. She helped with chores on the family farm and in her family's general store at the front of their home. Lena really did walk more than a mile to school, with baked potatoes in her mittens in winter months to keep her hands warm...those potatoes would be her lunch. After completing Grade 11 in Ethelbert, Lena taught on permit at a nearby school for one year, then did another year of permit-teaching after completing Grade 12 in Dauphin. Lena met and fell in love with Michael at Normal School in Winnipeg in January 1951, where by chance they were paired off in a Ukrainian dancing troupe. They married 65 years ago in August 1951 in Sifton, MB and for the next nine years taught in various schools in rural Manitoba, Lena's only time off being short leaves after the arrival of each of their three children. After the family moved to Transcona in 1960, Lena taught Kindergarten, Grade 1 and Ukrainian in various Transcona schools until her retirement in 1986. She enjoyed teaching and was highly regarded by colleagues, her students and their parents. Proud of her Ukrainian heritage and a long-time member of St. Michael's Ukrainian Catholic Church, Lena served on the Women's League and actively participated in the Friendly Settlers Seniors Club. Generous with her time, she worked with the church perogy makers and bingo club, and enjoyed volunteer opportunities. She valued her friends at St. Michael's Villa and new acquaintances at Devonshire House. Over the years, Lena and Michael travelled all over Canada and the US (especially Texas, to visit Dwight and family), Europe, Ukraine, Russia, Grenada and Cuba. More recently, their Hawaiian and Panama cruises were dreams come true, onboard trivia games and all. Lena truly enjoyed simple pleasures like scenic car and bus rides and Christmas light tours. She revelled in the challenge of cribbage, card games and crossword puzzles, and the fun of casino trips. And as easily as she laughed, so too she cried at every toast, grace, celebratory speech, even some commercials. Above all Lena treasured all her family and stayed close even when separated by many miles. She was devoted to her husband and her children, and she shared a very close bond with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Lena's chosen name of Bobbi reflected the modern and spirited role she played in the world of her great-grandchildren. Never a passive observer, Bobbi was invested in experiencing her great-grandchildren's lives alongside them. While she enjoyed their concerts and activities, reading and doing crafts and horticulture with them, it will be the outings for ice cream, the trip to Disney World in 2011 with Geri's clan, and her initiatives such as "Camp Bobbi" (a day of hula dancing, art and a museum tour) for which her memory will be held so dear. Always full of inspiring words and advice (and sometimes even homework), her message-filled cards and notes to all of us are precious mementos. Lena reserved her last big smile for her newest great-grandchild Calvin. Heartfelt thanks to Father Michael Krochak for praying with Lena and us and anointing her with oil one recent afternoon at Riverview, and to nurse Richard, her HomeCare workers and the staff at St. Boniface Hospital and Riverview for their exceptional care and compassion. Lena was resolute in her nontraditional wish to be memorialized at a later date together with Michael, a decision which allowed her to rest easy and pass peacefully. In Lena's honour, say the words "love you" often and with meaning to those you care about, and enjoy this beautiful season as she would have wanted you to. In her memory, donations to St. Boniface Hospital Foundation (Cardiovascular Research), Riverview Health Centre or a charity of your choice would be appreciated in lieu of flowers. Arrangements entrusted to Wheeler Funeral Home.
Publish Date: Dec 23, 2016
LENA SHEWCHUK With sadness and love and gratitude for a life well-lived, the family of Lena Shewchuk announces her passing at Riverview Health Centre on Wednesday, December 14, 2016, with her son Dwight by her side. It was Lena's wish that no service be held at this time. A longer obituary will appear on Friday, December 23.
Publish Date: Dec 17, 2016
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Dec 23, 2016
Condolences & Memories (20 entries)
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When Bernie Wolfe first opened, I was in her first kindergarden class... Tomorrow is my 50th birthday and I still remember her fondly. Very peaceful and friendly person. I have so many stories... But like many things, they will stay with me. I wish I knew you more as an adult and not like a child like I was. - Posted by: Craig Musgrove (Former student) on: Feb 03, 2021
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I met Lena and Mike when they moved in next door to 62 Perry Bay. Lena was truly the most wonderful lovely lady I knew. She not only babysat my children but they all loved and truly honored her. She had such a way with young children that was both old-fashioned and yet young at heart and able to recognize kindred spirits at the same time. My kids LOVED her and so did I. I lived alongside Mike and Lena for many wonderful years - I think the best years of my life, in so many ways due to her presence. I have so many special memories of Lena. One of my favourite memories was when she had a 'spur of the moment' lawn chair party for the entire neighborhood when the addition to 62 Perry was underway. She had goodies and juice and lawn chairs available for all...so we could all witness the digging of the holes for the concrete piles and the beginnings of the addition so that my family of four children could fit in the house...Lena gave freely of her time, energy and love to my children. She gave them confidence, read stories to them, let them watch movies too late at night and helped to form their personalities. (not to mention the perogies and holubci). Thank you for everything Lena - I love you and will always treasure the memories I hold in my heart. Laura Shabaga - Posted by: Laura Shabaga (Friend and Neighbour) on: Jan 13, 2017
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I had the pleasure of working with Lena at Bernie Wolfe School for many years. Lena was the kindest, most patient teacher. Her love of all children was very evident. She always had the most beautiful smile, and genuine warmth about her. Lena welcomed our staff into their home on several occasions, and Mike was equally welcoming. God has chosen a very special angel this Christmas. Our prayers are with your entire family, and especially with Mike. Our deepest sympathy. Joy & Ray Finch - Posted by: Joy Finch (Colleague) on: Dec 30, 2016
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Mrs Shewchuk was my kindergarten teacher at Wayoata School 45 years ago. She was always so kind and gentle with us young kids, not only teaching us about the alphabet and numbers but also teaching about sharing, caring, tolerance and problem solving life’s little problems. It was a pleasure to have been one of her many students and to have remained in contact with her all these years. To Mr. Shewchuk and family, our thoughts and prayers are with you. - Posted by: Joanie (Peiluck) Smalley and family (former student) on: Dec 28, 2016
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To Dwight, I realized this was your Mom and remember fondly our days together in medical school. Condolences on the loss of your Mom. I'm glad you were with her. Joan - Posted by: Joan Flood (Friend) on: Dec 28, 2016
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I grew up next door to Shewchik family on Victoria. I was a very high spirited and unruly child. Mrs. Shewchuk was always so kind , and patient with me. She always greeted me with a smile and hello. Wonderful neighbors, great memories. I will always remember Mrs. Shewcuk. My sincere condolences to Shewcuk family. Susan Perich Klopak. - Posted by: Susan Perich (Neighbor) on: Dec 24, 2016
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Dear Geri, Ken and family...I was so sorry to hear of Lena's passing...I remember working with her in Transcona and enjoying her kindness and love of teaching...She was a great lady and will be remembered with fondness...Sincerely, Amy Abe Murray - Posted by: Amy Abe Murray (Colleague) on: Dec 24, 2016
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RIP Mrs. Shewchuk. She was always so loving and caring. I was one lucky child to grow up on Perry Bay. What a nuisance we might have been, calling on the kindergarten teacher, but she always had time for us. And even Mr. Shewchuk, we'd follow him around and pester him too. In adulthood whenever I'd see Lena, she would always stop to talk, ask how everyone's doing, always have sweet, thoughtful words, and a caring tone! How fortunate to have someone like her in your lives, she will always be remembered. Peace be with you. - Posted by: Dawn Henry (Neighbourhood kid) on: Dec 24, 2016
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She left a special mark on everyone who knew her. Wonderful teacher, beautiful spirit. Our family lived on Perry Bay, around the bend from her house. She will be missed and remembered by many! My Condolences to the family. - Posted by: Dena Zwarich (Former student - Bernie Wolfe) on: Dec 23, 2016
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My kindergarden teacher at Wayoata. I still remember the naps, show and tell, lining up to go to Mrs. Ross's class for the sing alongs. Although it has been 45 years I remember her perpetual smile, her compassion and how only cowboys say yep instead of yes. Farewell Mrs. Shewchuk, I could not have asked for a better kindergarden teacher. - Posted by: Paul Douglas (Student) on: Dec 23, 2016
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So sorry to hear of the passing of Mrs. Shewchuk. She was a fabulous teacher at Bernie Wolfe. My deepest condolences to her family. - Posted by: Andrea Guss (need Gedye) () on: Dec 23, 2016
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My condolences to Mrs. Shewchuk's family. She was my Kindergarten teacher and I'll always have fond memories of her. What a wonderful person and teacher she was. She will be missed! - Posted by: Shannon Kennedy (Former Student) on: Dec 23, 2016
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Sad to hear of the passing of your mother. Have fond memories of those days on Victoria. - Posted by: David Perich (Neighbour) on: Dec 23, 2016
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Sincere condolences on your Mom's passing to your family, Dwight. - Posted by: Gail (Hamilton) Colomy (high school friend of Dwight) on: Dec 19, 2016
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I was privileged to have been one of her many students. I still have fond memories being in her class. My condolences to her family and friends. - Posted by: Cecille M (Kindergarten Teacher) on: Dec 18, 2016
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So sorry to hear of your Mom passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. - Posted by: Colin & Andrea Rodrigue (Friend of Geri and Ken) on: Dec 18, 2016
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My two daughters were so lucky to have Mrs. Shewchuk as their kindergarten teacher at Bernie Wolfe school!!! She was a lovely, gentle soul. My deep condolences to the family.....you were so blessed to have her in your life. - Posted by: Karen Hadder (Acquaintance ) on: Dec 17, 2016
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My condolences to Mrs. Shewchuk's family. Mrs. Shewchuk was my kindergarten teacher at Bernie Wolfe school when it first opened. She was such a wonderful lady and I have had the pleasure of seeing her time and again over the years, most recently 2 years ago, and it amazed me how she would always remember who I was. She will be sadly missed. - Posted by: Charlene Giesbrecht (Former student) on: Dec 17, 2016
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I had the extreme pleasure of being Lena's para-professional many, many years ago when she taught kindergarten at Bernie Wolfe School when it first opened. She had a great passion for her students and loved to shape their young minds. She was a wonderful person and I will always remember her with great fondness. I offer my sincere sympathy on her passing to all her family. - Posted by: Carol Rousseau (Friend and co-worker) on: Dec 17, 2016
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To Geri (Ken) & Dwight our prayers and thoughts are with you on the loss of a great lady. - Posted by: Bill & Margaret Paulishyn (Friends ex teacher) on: Dec 17, 2016
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