CATHERINE (KATHIE) JOSEPHINE AKERSTREAM (MINCHUK)

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CATHERINE (KATHIE) JOSEPHINE AKERSTREAM (nee MINCHUK) Born: February 10, 1932 Date of Passing: February 25, 2018 It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved wife, mother, baba and aunt on Sunday, February 25, 2018, at St. Boniface Hospital. Mom was born on February 10, 1932 in St. Boniface. Predeceased by her parents Nick and Mary Minchuk, and siblings Thomas and Joanne (Walter) Malkowich. Mom treasured her summers at the farm with her siblings and many members of her extended family. She attended school at St. Mary's Academy and was proud to finish second in her class. As a young woman she enjoyed art and dancing, and was crowned the Queen of Prosvita Hall. On July 14, 1951, she married the love of her life, Gerald Akerstream. Together they began a life that would see her begin her true love as a wife, parent, grandparent and great-grandparent. During their 66 and a half years of marriage they were the proud and devoted parents of five children: Diane (David), Jerry (Karen), Tom (Karen), Ken (Carol) and Sandra. Ten grandchildren also came to know the blessing of the love and support that Mom tirelessly shared with all of her family: Jeremy (Kusham), Nicole (Devon), Jesse (Tammy), Cole (Stephanie), Krista (Bret), Kyle (Stephanie), Kaitlin, Daniel (Vanessa), Arly and Colin. In her later years, Mom was thrilled to have the addition of six great-grandchildren to her family and took great pride in showing off pictures and telling stories about Jai, Mackenzie, Ashlyn, Nicholas, Cameron and Louie. She was also blessed by the love and support of her five special nephews, the Malkowichs: Daniel, Ronald, Walter, Gary, Brian and their families. Together we share so many wonderful memories of Mom. She was well known for her love of the Assiniboia Downs Horse Race track, her Black Jack prowess, great deals at the shopping malls and of course her expertise as a bingo player; where she spent many evenings with friends and whenever possible a grandchild or two who would marvel at her speed with a dabber. The true passions of her life though, were her devoted husband Gerry and her family. Her love, generosity, kindness, patience, presence and selflessness deeply touched the entire family. She was the constant in all of our family matters and the center of our family gatherings during the holidays or any other occasion. She was an angel on earth who devoted her life to providing for her family, never asking for anything in return. Her selfless dedication and love will be deeply missed but never forgotten. Mom, we will always be thinking of you and will love you forever. The family would like to thank her physician Dr. Robin Sen and the St. Boniface Hospital Palliative Care team for their compassionate care. As per Kathie's wishes, cremation and a private family celebration have taken place. If friends desire, in lieu of flowers, a donation may be made in Kathie's memory to a charity of your choice. Love One Another, As I Have Loved You. Vichnaya Pamyat

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Mar 03, 2018