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MARY KOWALCZUK
At the St. Pierre Medical Centre, Mary Kowalczuk (nee Storoschuk) of Grande Pointe, MB, passed away at the age of 91 years.
The offspring of a Ukrainian pioneer family, Mary was the fifth of six children born on April 6, 1935, to Anna and John Peter Storoschuk in the town of Cooks Creek, MB. In April 1939, the family returned to farm, the land they kept in the RM of Stuartburn, MB. After growing up and completing high school, Mary moved to Winnipeg where she worked as a switchboard operator at the St. Boniface Hospital, and in time, had met her husband-to-be, John. They married on July 6, 1957 and eventually raised five sons living in various homes in the south St. Vital area.
After having raised her family, Mary then returned to work at the St. Amant Centre as a receptionist until her retirement. Mary was a devout Catholic and was an active member of the Catholic Women's League for many years at Christ the King Church of St. Vital where she prepared many funeral luncheons. She later continued her volunteer service at St. Timothy's Church. Mary and her husband John eventually built themselves a new home in the rural community of Grande Pointe, MB where they would enjoy their retirement years together.
Having been immersed in Ukrainian culture since childhood, Mary developed a flair for gardening and preparing Ukrainian cuisine, especially at Christmas time with the traditional 12 meatless dishes. A huge specialty was her pierogies, which were always a hit with family and friends alike.
Commitment to family was everything to Mary and she took pride in raising her five sons. She absolutely adored and loved her nine grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.
Mary leaves to mourn her four sons: Richard (Chantal), Edward (Suzanne), Andrew, Mark (Joanna); eight grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and friends.
Mary is predeceased by her five siblings, her husband John of 49 years, her middle son Patrick, her grandson Christian, her daughter-in-law Rhonda (Andrew), as well as, nephews Allan, Arnold, and Paul.
A service to honour Mary's life will be held at the RC Parish of St. Timothy, 135 John Forsyth Road, Winnipeg, on Tuesday, September 8, 2026. Viewing is scheduled for 10:30 am, with the service to commence at 11:00 am. Luncheon to follow.
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Sep 05, 2026
Condolences & Memories (2 entries)
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My sincerest condolences to Mark and Joanna and family, she was a great strong woman. Sending prayers to you and your family at this difficult time. Diana Dutra and Family - Posted by: Diana Dutra (family friend) on: Sep 16, 2026
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My sincere condolences to the family. I had the privilege of meeting Mary briefly while working for her son Mark! She was such a sweet lady! May you rest in peace Mary! - Posted by: Pauline Cross (Former co-worker for Mark) on: Sep 07, 2026