SOPHIE HUNKA (MANDRICK)

Adjust Text Size: A+ A-

SOPHIE HUNKA (nee MANDRICK) On July 23, 2003 at Seven Oaks Hospital, Sophie, at the age of 90, peacefully left us. She is survived by her daughter Diane, son-in-law Bob, and grandson, Ian MacArthur. She will also be remembered by her brothers Walter and Danny; sisters-in-law Jean and Adele, as well as by her many nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her husband of 62 years, George; parents Magdalena and William; sister Anne; brothers, John, Mike, Steve, Bill and Joe. Sophie was born in Winnipeg in 1913, third eldest in a close family of nine siblings. She attended King Edward and Isaac Newton Schools. When their mother fell ill, Sophie, then in her mid-teens, became a second mother to her younger brothers, providing stability and support in times of need. She continued to serve as a cornerstone in the Mandrick family throughout her entire life. In 1934 she married George, and together, they enjoyed a long and happy marriage. Although Sophie lived most of her life in Winnipeg, Georges transfer with Air Canada in 1965 necessitated a move to Montreal. She recalled her time in Quebec with fondness. Upon Georges retirement in 1972, they returned home to Winnipeg. Sophie was a caring wife, mother and grandmother, whose generosity and selflessness will never be forgotten. Providing a comfortable and nurturing environment for her family was always a top priority. Sophie placed a high value on education and took every opportunity to encourage others to further their training in school or university. Always the pragmatist, she could be counted on for honest, common sense advice. She was a sound judge of character and fiercely loyal to those closest to her. Sophie had an outgoing, congenial personality, and she and George enjoyed entertaining family and friends in their home, where guests were treated to Sophies exceptional culinary skills and genuine hospitality. She took special pleasure in entertaining the family over the Christmas season, a tradition that continued well into her eighties. In retirement Sophie enjoyed gardening, bowling, travelling and fishing with George, and she especially cherished the times spent with her grandson, Ian. Her strong will and determination took her through good times as well as adversity, but she always said that life was good to her. Sophies presence will be sadly missed by all who were fortunate to have known and loved her. She was thankful to her brother Walter for the assistance he provided in later years that enabled her to remain at home. Also, the regular visits by her brother Danny and sisters-in-law Jean and Adele during the past year were much appreciated. FAREWELL May the road rise up to meet you May the wind be always at your back May the sunshine warm upon your face The rains fall soft upon your fields And until we meet again May God hold you in the hollow of His hand. Cremation has taken place. There will be no service. The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to the staff of Spruce Unit at Fred Douglas Lodge for the exceptional care, respect and kindness provided to Sophie, and for allowing her to maintain her dignity to the end. If so desired, donations in Sophies memory may be made to the Fred Douglas Lodge Society, 1275 Burrows Ave., Winnipeg, MB R2X 0B8 or the Parkinson Society of Manitoba, 302 - 171 Donald St., Winnipeg, MB R3C 1M4.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Aug 09, 2003