KATHLEEN WERNEY

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KATHLEEN WERNEY Our lives are a circle. The sky, the earth, the stars and the life of all creatures. Kathleen Werney, my Grandma, completed her circle to quietly and respectfully return to the earth she adored. It is not without a smile and a tear that I pass along the wonder of a life lived to the fullest. Grandma was born in September, 1905 and came to Canada from Russia as a young child. She was a devoted daughter to her parents, Mary and Michael Kulbaba. A loyal friend and sibling to the late Peter, Archie, Emma and Carl. And she shared a special bond with her brother Einar and wife Pearl Carlson of Alberta until her passing. Grandma was married to her beloved Harry for 43 years. Together they built a life upon the land and waters they loved in the untouched woods of northwestern Ontario. They owned and operated Ana Nee Chee Fishing and Hunting Lodge on Favel Lake for a good part of their life. The best part of their life. They were pioneers and revered and lived in harmony with the wilderness. We were taught by example at a young age to treat the Earth well. That the actions of today greatly impact the legacy we leave for tomorrow. That there is a way of walking with the earth instead of upon it. Grandma lost her son James in recent years. She is forever in the heart, smile and gentleness of her daughter and friend, Florence. Simon and Florence Minuk lived down the street from Grandma for the 25 years she lived in Winnipeg. Grandma was always near us. My brother Nell Minuk, his mate Kristi Wyndels and myself, Lisa Rae Minuk, will hold gently the wonderful times and pearls of wisdom we were handed by Grandma. Grandma was filled with absolute delight at the arrival of her two great-grandsons, Simon Alexander Minuk and Nate Wyndels Minuk in 1996. And they will forever remember the candies and hugs of "old Grandma." We are appreciative for the past five years of compassion and care she received at West Park Manor. We must give special attention to the kind acts of Ruben LaTour, Natalie and Brenda. Grandma loved those who had become her extended family. On the evening of the 9th of June, Grandma was placed in the exceptional and complete care of the emergency staff and Dr. George of the Grace Hospital. They kindly and tenderly administered care and granted her the peace and ability to leave us with such great dignity. Her stays at the Grace Hospital were always positive experiences and we offer our thanks. My Grandma was a fiercely independent, strong but gentle soul who possessed the inner beauty we all admire. The twinkle in her eyes, the soft and tender hands that told the story of a life of hard work. there will be few who will not take with them on their journey, a smile or a fond memory of this remarkable woman I was blessed to call Grandma. A private prayer has been said with Grandma and there will be no service. As she peacefully and honestly lived, it was as she left. We ask that you consider the words of my Grandpa and give the flowers to someone you love so that they may enjoy their splendour today. Commit an act of random kindness, hold your family dear and tell someone today that you love them. This is how Grandmas life should be honoured and how her spirit will remain. NEIL BARDAL INC. 949-2200 www.nbardal.mb.ca

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jun 12, 2001