For Posterity's Sake Genealogy 

The Canora Courier

27 August 2008

BARON  BAZANSKY  BREZINSKI  DEMYD  EWASCHUK  HESHKA  JOHNSON

JOLLY  POLOVNIKOFF  REWAKOWSKY  SMORODIN

Canora Courier, August 27, 2008 Page 10 – In memoriam:

BARON: Josephine 1912 - August 31, 2006 and BARON: Steve 1907-1972.

Two golden hearts stopped beating,

Two gentle people at rest;

God broke our hearts to prove to us,

He only takes the best. 

-Love Virginia, Pam and Joel.

Canora Courier, August 27, 2008 Page 11

BAZANSKY: Mary Bazansky of Saskatoon and formerly of Stenen district, SK passed away at St. Paul's Hospital in Saskatoon on August 11th. 2008 at the age of 93 years. Mary was born in the Stenen district on December 24th, 1914 to Kost and Anna (nee Yuzek) Zahara. She attended school in Frame Lake which was north of Stenen.

Mary was united in marriage to Michael Bazansky on November 7th, 1940. Together they resided on the homestead two and half miles north of Stenen. They farmed, had livestock including: chickens, pigs, etc and maintained a hard working lifestyle. Mike and Mary were blessed with two children: Don and Faye. Mary was an active member for many years at the Ukrainian Orthodox Church northeast of Stenen. She enjoyed gardening, canning, cooking and visiting with friends and family. She also enjoyed watching baseball and curling. After Mike's passing, Mary continued to live on the farm before moving to an apartment in Canora on October 7th, 1995. At this point in her life she thoroughly enjoyed visiting with her neighbours, crocheting and keeping in touch with her family. Mary was a very caring and giving person. She instilled many good values in her children and grandchildren. She taught them to be fair, honest and most of all, to believe in God. She never missed a birthday, anniversary, Valentine's Day, etc. There was always a card in the mail with a little note.

On January l5th, 2007, her health began to fail and it was decided she should relocate to Saskatoon to be closer to her family and health care facilities. Mary passed away peacefully at St. Paul's Hospital with her family and friends by her side. She will be dearly missed by all.

Mary is lovingly remembered by her son Don (Elaine) Bazansky of Saskatoon, SK; her daughter Faye (Clarence) Munchinsky of Saskatoon, SK; her two sisters: Polly Fetchuk of Canora, SK and Dorothy (Jack) Magnell of Saskatoon, SK; her four grandchildren: Shawna (Michael) Kozun of Carrot River, SK, Michelle Bazansky, Melissa Munchinsky and Chad Munchinsky all of Saskatoon, SK; her four great grandchildren: Tanner, Samantha and Tessa Kozun of Carrot River, SK and Kaden Bazansky of Saskatoon, SK. She was predeceased by her husband Michael; her parents: Kost and Anna and her three brothers: Mike, Pete and George Zahara.

The Prayer Service was held on Monday, August 18th, 2008 at 7:00 p.m. The Funeral Service was held on Tuesday, August 19th, 2008 at 10:30 a.m. both from the Chapel of Leson's Funeral Home, Canora with Rev. Fr. Andrew Piasta officiating. Interment followed in the Holy Assumption of Blessed Virgin Mary Orthodox Cemetery, northeast of Stenen, SK. Arrangements were entrusted to LESON'S FUNERAL HOME, Canora. (563-5671).

Canora Courier, August 27, 2008 Page 11

DEMYD: Walter Demyd of Invermay, SK passed away at the Canora Hospital on August 18th, 2008 at the age of 85 years. Walter was born February 16th, 1923 in Liev, Ukraine to Alex and Catherine (nee Ivanowich) Demyd. At the age of seven, Walter immigrated to Canada with his parents & three siblings. His younger sister Olga was born in Canada. The family originally settled in the Loon Lake (Big Bush) area.

Soon after, the family moved to the Dobrowody area northeast of Rama. At the age of eighteen, Walter left the family farm to find employment in Campbell River, BC. He worked for several years in the lumber camps & with CP Rail before entering into the pipefitting/instrumentation trade. His job took him to many locations across Ontario, Saskatchewan & Alberta. Walter took much pride in his trade & the union, contributing dues to his profession until his passing. Walter continued to work into his retirement operating Wally's Inn Cafe and Liquor Vendor in Invermay. Everyone who greeted Walter knew to expect the same response; he was always "overworked & underpaid". He loved to go to "coffee row" and whether it was politics or religion and everything in between, he expressed his opinion. After leaving the business, Walter accompanied sisters Mary and Olga to the Ukraine in 1994 to visit their aunts, uncles & other relatives.

Walter is lovingly remembered by his two sisters: Mary Holtby of Loon Lake, SK and Olga (Peter) Pozniak of Rama, SK: his six nieces: Carol (Russ) Williamson of Loon Lake, SK, Sandra (John) Pozniak of Saskatoon, SK, Karen Pozniak of Saskatoon, SK, Margaret (Mark) Kochems of Calgary, AB, Shirley (Craig) Richardson of Fort McMurray, AB and Marianne (Reg) Fogg of Invermay, SK; his three nephews: Allan (Rose) Pozniak of Rama, SK, Gerald (Deb) Pozniak of Canora, SK, and Ivan (Monica) Pozniak of Squamish, BC., and numerous great and great-great nieces and nephews. Walter was predeceased by his parents Alex and Catherine and his two brothers, Russell and Wasyl.

The Prayer Service was held on Thursday, August 21st, 2008 at 7:00 p.m. from the Chapel of Leson's Funeral Home, Canora. The Funeral Liturgy was celebrated on Friday, August 22nd, 2008 at 10:00 a.m. from the Dobrowody Ukrainian Catholic Church, northwest of Buchanan, with Rev. Fr. Joakim Rac officiating. Interment followed in the Canora Cemetery. Those wishing to make expressions of sympathy may make donations in memory of Walter to the Dobrowody Ukrainian Catholic Church. Arrangements were entrusted to LESON'S FUNERAL HOME, Canora. (563-5671).

Canora Courier, August 27, 2008 Page 12

SMORODIN: It is with heartfelt sadness we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, and grandfather Fred W. Smorodin on July 25th. 2008 at St. Paul's Hospital in Saskatoon, SK. Fred was born October 7th, 1918 on his grandparent's farm in Buchanan, Saskatchewan, land which still remains in the family today. He attended school at Dydland School and spent his early years working on his family's farm till he eventually started renting his own land around 1938.

In his earlier years, Fred ventured out to Vancouver and worked in a furniture factory during the winter, but the call of the Saskatchewan wheat fields always had him return each spring. On December 6th, 1949 Fred married Pearl Dergousoff. They persevered many hard years in the beginning, but together with their pioneering spirit, hard work, frugalness and will to succeed, they turned what may have been obstacles for some into opportunity for themselves. They began by renting a small parcel of land to building a large, thriving grain farm operation which will continue to be run by his son, Ray. Fred's efforts were recognized in 2000 when he received a Pioneer Century Farm Award from the Saskatchewan government for continually farming family land in Saskatchewan for 100 years.

In 1974 Fred and Pearl celebrated their 25th Anniversary with family and friends at a gathering at their first home together (Fred's parents home), and in 1999 they celebrated their 50th anniversary again with family and friends at a gathering at their new farmyard, just a few miles away. Throughout his life Fred's passion was his farm. When he wasn't farming with his son Ray, Fred loved hunting, fishing, sharing stories with his grandchildren and giving them rides on his Quad or offering a cup of coffee and a hand-shake to anyone who set foot in their yard. A great story teller, Fred often reminisced about the early years in Saskatchewan with such detail you would believe it just happened yesterday! For decades he and Pearl were fixtures at Good Spirit Lake enjoying the outdoors and taking a few pickerel home. Those who knew Fred knew an honest, hard working and compassionate husband, father, grandfather and farmer. We will never forget Fred.

Fred is survived by Pearl, his loving wife of 58 years; sister's Mary Wishlow of Victoria B.C. and Mable Carlson (Thorsten) of Saskatoon: three children, Doug Smorodin and companion Barb of Abbotsford B.C. and her children Sarah & Tamara; Ray Smorodin and his wife Penny and their children Allie, Erin and Dylan of Buchanan; Lori Robin and her husband Dickson and their children Landon. Kaitlyn & Tanner of Saskatoon. Fred was predeceased by his father Wasil (1983), his mother Mary (1939), his step­mother Elizabeth (1983), his siblings Bill (1988), John (1966), Alex (1984), George (2003), Pearl Jennings (2001) and Andy (2006).

A Celebration of Life for Fred Smorodin was held on Thursday, July 31st, 2008 at 11:00 a.m. from the Chapel of Leson's Funeral Home, Canora, SK. A private family interment to follow at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Edmonton Burn Unit -- U of A Hospital, Preeceville Hospital Renovation Fund or a charity of your choice. Arrangements were entrusted to LESON'S FUNERAL HOME, Canora. (563-5671).

Canora Courier, August 27, 2008 Page 12

BREZINSKI: Frank passed away peacefully at St. Paul's Hospital in Saskatoon on Sunday, July 20, 2008 at the age of 85 years. Frank was born on July 23, 1922 to Mike and Berna Brezinski. Frank attended Dydland School. When the war broke out Frank got a postponement because he was the only son of age at home. In 1944 he went to work at a bush camp in Prairie River for two winters.

On August 10, 1946 Frank married Antonia (Tina) Obodiak. They lived on their farm near Buchanan until 1976.

In 1976 Frank and Tina moved to Canora. Frank continued to farm for many more years helping his son Lorne. In January 2005 Frank and Tina moved to Saskatoon to the Franklin Retirement community. On June 10, 2008 Frank (due to failing health) joined Tina at Sunnyside Care Centre. Frank served on various boards and committees including the Buchanan Rural Telephone Co., St. Anne's R.C. board, Sask. Farmers Union, Dydland Snow Club, Dydland School board, St. Joseph's R.C. Men's Club and was a life time member of the Knights of Columbus. Frank enjoyed fishing, hunting, softball, playing cards and pool. Frank enjoyed having company over and was always up to a game of Kaiser or Rummy. He will be sadly missed by all who knew him.

Frank is survived by his loving wife Tina of 61 years. He is also survived by his son Lorne (Barb) of Buchanan, daughters Leona (Chester) Kowalchuk of Sturgis, Livia (Carl) Collier of Wasa, B.C., Linda (Nick) Nicolichuk and Lily Ann (Lyle) Grieman of Saskatoon. Frank will be missed by his grandchildren Blair and Michael Nicolichuk, Michelle (Ryan) Brown, Shawn, Sheldon and Evan Grieman, Collin (Liberty) Kowalchuk, Amanda and Crystal (Jason Trapp) Kowalchuk and Darryl and Darcy Brezinski of Saskatoon, Shona (Keith) Madsen of Yorkton, and Laurissa Kowalchuk of Sturgis. Frank has four great grandchildren Hailey and Ally Madsen, Brooklyn Kowalchuk and Cooper Brown. Frank will be sadly missed by his sisters Olive (Orest) Zaleschuk, Isabelle Gratton and Halaria (Julian) Stelmaschuk, sister-in-law Ann Brezinski and Helen Obodiak and brother-in-law Steve (Elsie) Obodiak and numerous nieces and nephews. Frank was predeceased by his parents Mike and Berna, Tina's parents Mike and Mary Obodiak, his brother Louis, his sister and brother in law Caroline and Tony Chicilo. brothers-in-law Graydon Gratton and John Obodiak and his grandson Jason Nicolichuk.

Prayers for Frank were held at Leson's Funeral Home Canora on Tuesday. July 22, 2008 and Mass of Christian Burial was held on Wednesday, July 23, 2008 at St. Joseph's R.C. Church Canora. Interment took place at Canora Cemetery. Arrangements were entrusted to LESON'S FUNERAL HOME, Canora (563-5671).

Canora Courier, August 27, 2008 Page 12

JOHNSON: Marian Diane Johnson (nee Shannon) of Canora SK, formerly of Kamloops, B.C. passed away suddenly August 17th, 2008 at the Regina General Hospital at the age of 73. Diane was born October 21st, 1934 to William and Joan (nee Fordham) Shannon in Vancouver B.C. Diane and her parents moved around the Vancouver and Vancouver Island area several times during her youth. At one time living on a float house in and around the Nootka Sound of Vancouver Island where they made their income picking Salal branches for florists. Correspondence schooling and groceries delivered by the passing ships from Victoria was the norm. Diane spoke of this point in her life of many happy times but also had many stories of the wild ocean storms. To the end Diane had developed a great fear of wind storms.

Diane met her future husband George Johnson in 1950 and they married in Vancouver, August 11th, 1953. They lived in and around Vancouver while working at the Johnson family business, Johnson's JB Coffee, for several years while starting their family. In 1965, Diane and George, along with their 5 children moved to Sooke, B.C. They took in foster children and enjoyed the large family life living on a cove of the ocean. Diane worked at the hardware store and George attended University. Upon completion of George's teaching degree, the family moved to Kamloops where George taught High School and Diane worked at the Hardware store and Woodward's. Diane became very involved in Bowling and coached the Youth Bowling team of Kamloops. She was a member of the Women's Institute of Canada. Diane was passionate about this organization as it helped move forward the laws, promoting health and care of women and children of our country. She would knit and sew continuously, making lap blankets for people in wheel chairs, outfits and nighties for the preemie babies. Diane and George joined ANAVETS and soon discovered the love of playing darts.

For many years twice a week and many weekends their time was spent in tournaments and games, enjoying all the people and laughter involved. The love of this sport followed with them wherever they moved. In 2002, they moved to Canora, to retire in a less 'big city' pace. Diane had her garden which she was very proud of full of flowers and vegetables alike. She always loved to sing and discovered the Joy of Singing group. Singing at Park Place, the Lodge and the hospital became an outing she looked forward to weekly, meeting and laughing with many members of the community. She will be deeply missed by all she leaves behind.

Diane is survived by her loving husband, George Johnson of Canora SK, her two sons. Stephen Johnson of Canora SK, and Timothy Johnson of Barrier BC, her three daughters, Shannon Wade of Victoria BC, Liane (Al) Garcia of Sturgis SK, and Lori Fletcher of Winnipeg MB, her three granddaughters, Theresa (John Klatt) Wade of Courtenay BC, Sarah Ross of Victoria BC and Olivia Wade of Victoria BC, her two great-granddaughters, Hayley Ross and Courtney Haslam both of Victoria BC.

The Memorial Service was held on Monday, August 25th, 2008 at 1:00 p.m. from the Chapel of Leson's Funeral Home, Canora with Velda Dahlin of the United Church of Canada officiating. Interment to follow at a later date. Arrangements were entrusted to LESON'S FUNERAL HOME, Canora. (563-5671).

Canora Courier, August 27, 2008 Page 13

REWAKOWSKY: Melvin Steve Rewakowsky passed away suddenly on August 18th, 2008 at the age of 65 years. Mel was born on March 16th, 1943 in Hyas district to Joseph and Dora (nee Ratushniak) Rewakowsky. As a young man, Mel attended his first years of school in Mohyla and continued his education in Canora while helping his father on the family farm. He became a

protective big brother when his sister Joyce was born.

Mel left the farm and moved into Canora in 1960 where he began working at Dan's Groceteria. In 1961, Mel met Evelyn at the Palace Cafe where she was a waitress. They were united in marriage on July 3rd, 1965. Mel began working at the Co-op lumber yard. In 1971, Mel and Evelyn were blessed with their son Darcy. Then the family moved to Coalhurst, AB where Mel was a carpenter with Westwinds Construction. He travelled throughout Alberta building spillways for irrigation and houses. In 1978, the family relocated to Fort McMurray, AB where he was employed for the next eleven years in the warehouse of Sun Oil Company. In 1988, the family again returned to Canora to be closer to family. He finished his working career with Bio Fibre and retired. Mel loved the outdoors especially hunting, fishing, golfing and tinkering in his garage.

Mel is lovingly remembered by his wife Evelyn of Canora; his son Darcy (Katherine) of Canora; his mother Dora Rewakowsky of Canora; his sister Joyce (Fred) Yanciw of Calgary, AB as well as numerous nieces, nephews and many friends. He is also remembered by Evelyn's brothers and sisters: Isabelle Geard of Selkirk, MB. Metro (Ruth) Fincaryk of Selkirk, MB, Steven (Diane) Fincaryk of Hillcrest, AB and Joyce (Ray) Elliot of Blairemore, AB. He was predeceased by his father Joseph in 2003 and Evelyn's brother Leonard Fincaryk.

The Celebration of Life Service was held on Thursday. August 21st, 2008 at 2:00 p.m. from the Chapel of Leson's Funeral Home, Canora with Rev. Catherine Pace of the United Church of Canada officiating. Interment followed in the Canora Cemetery. Those wishing to make expressions of sympathy may make donations to the Canadian Cancer Society or to the Mission & Service Fund of the United Church of Canada as tokens of remembrance. Arrangements were entrusted to LESON'S FUNERAL HOME, Canora. (563-5671).

Canora Courier, August 27, 2008 Page 13

JOLLY: Helen Jolly passed away suddenly on July 20th, 2008 at the age of 79 years. Helen was born on October 20th, 1928 to Mike and Mary (nee Pobihun) Perzan in Fosston, SK. As a young girl, Helen attended the Fosston School while helping her parents on the family farm. She also worked at the Rose Valley Hospital prior to her marriage to Hugh Jolly on May 22nd, 1951. From the time of their marriage, they lived in Archerwell, Rose Valley, Wadena, Kenaston & Raymore.

In 1957, Helen and Hugh moved to Canora where they have resided until present. Helen thoroughly enjoyed crafts such as knitting and crocheting. She will be dearly missed by all.

Helen is survived by her husband Hugh of Canora; her daughter Heather (Boris) Skoretz of Regina, SK; her two brothers: Alex (Nettie) Perzan of Winnipeg, MB and John (Denise) Perzan of Kelowna. B.C.; her three grandchildren: Danica (Cale) Goodman of Calgary, AB, Steven (Jamie McLeod) Skoretz of Regina, SK, Adam Skoretz of Regina, SK; her two great grandchildren: Deven Goodman of Calgary, AB and Hutton McLeod of Regina. SK. She was predeceased by her parents: Mike and Mary (nee Pobihun) Perzan; her brother William Perzan; her two sisters: Lena Melnyk and Anna in infancy.

The Funeral Service was held on Friday. July 25th, 2008 at 3:00 p.m. from the Chapel of Leson's Funeral Home, Canora with Pastor Greg Bright officiating. Interment followed in the Canora Cemetery. Arrange­ments were entrusted to LESON'S FUNERAL HOME. Canora (563-5671 ).

Canora Courier, August 27, 2008 Page 13

POLOVNIKOFF: Annie Polovnikoff passed away on August 17th, 2008 at the Canora Gateway Lodge on her 95th birthday. Most of her life was spent on a farm. First near Amsterdam, then west of Canora. Huge yields from her garden would be distributed amongst family and friends. Her amazing desserts would challenge the willpower of all visitors. Her energy and spirit of generosity were showered on her children, grandchildren and on all relatives and friends. Her work is finally done.

Annie is survived by her daughter Margaret Varnam and granddaughters: Christine and Brenda, and by her son John and his daughter Amber and great grandsons: Keller and Hunter. Also by a younger sister Polly Rebalkin.

The Funeral was held August 20th, 2008 from the Chapel of Leson's Funeral Home, Canora. Many thanks to the caregivers at the Kamsack Eaglestone Lodge and at the Canora Gateway Lodge for their exceptional skill, compassion and respect to all those who live there. Arrangements were entrusted to LESON'S FUNERAL HOME, Canora. (563-5671):

Canora Courier, August 27, 2008 Page 13

EWASCHUK: Metro Ewaschuk of the Canora Gateway Lodge passed away peacefully on July 18th, 2008 at the age of 94 years. Metro was born on February 12th, 1914 in the Glen Elder District, SK to John and Katherine (nee Olexsyshen) Ewaschuk. As a young man, Metro attended the South Porcupine School achieving his grade eight while helping his parents on the family farm. As he got older, he decided to 'ride the rails' looking for work. But eventually he returned home to continue farming. Metro had a mixed farming operation which included purebred Herefords. He was a member of the Saskatchewan Wheat Pool and Hereford Association. Community minded, Metro was always willing to help lend a hand to anyone needing it.

He enjoyed hunting and fishing in his spare time but thoroughly enjoyed family gatherings with his nieces and nephews. He travelled to visit his brother Paul in Ontario, also to St. Catherines, Niagara Falls, Detroit and his yearly visits to the Yorkton Fair. Metro was a hard-working, honest man with a lot of integrity and honesty who always expected it in return. He did have quite the sense of humour and always had a good joke. Metro sold the farm in April of 1972 and relocated to Preeceville until 1994. He then moved to Canora where he lived in the Jubilee low rentals for ten years before becoming a resident of the Canora Gateway Lodge in 2004. Metro had a real zest for life and always tried to be a good person to all. He will be dearly missed.

Metro is survived by his two sisters: Annie (Mike) Lazaruk and Mary (Peter) Fedorchuk. He was predeceased by his parents: John and Katherine Ewaschuk.

The Prayer Service was held on Thursday, July 24th at 7:00 p.m. The Funeral Service was held on Friday, July 25th at 10:00 a.m. both from the Chapel of Leson's Funeral Home, Canora with Rev. Miles Russell officiating. Interment followed in the Canora Cemetery. Those wishing to make expressions of sympathy may make donations to the Canora Gateway Lodge Auxiliary or to the Heart & Stroke Foundation of Saskatchewan as tokens of remembrance. Arrangements were entrusted to LESON'S FUNERAL HOME, Canora. (563-5671).

Canora Courier, August 27, 2008 Page 13

HESHKA: Olga Heshka passed away peacefully at the Canora Hospital with her family by her side on August 20th, 2008 at the age of 83 years. Olga was born on September 13th, 1924 in the Burgis District to Wasyl and Katherine (nee Lischynski) Heshka. As a young girl, she attended the Poplar Springs School achieving her grade eight while she helped her family on their farm.

Following her schooling, Olga worked as a homemaker for local Hyas area families. Olga was at a dance when she met her future husband Bill Heshka and they were married on November 11th, 1945 at the Donwell West Church.

Following their marriage, they moved to the family homestead and were blessed with four children: Don, Dianne, Geraldine & Joanne. As a family they ran a mixed farming operation and Olga worked hand in hand with Bill and the children at all times. Bill and Olga semi-retired to Canora in 1982, while Bill continued farming, Olga remained his dedicated wife, companion and caregiver until his passing. She moved to Park Place in the fall of 2005 and then to Don and Treena's in February of 2007. They were members of the Donwell West, Holy Transfiguration and the Holy Trinity Ukrainian Orthodox Churches. Her church life was very important to her. Olga was a member of the Ladies Auxiliary and the Sick & Visiting Committee. She volunteered with Meals on Wheels, the Tourism Booth and working with Vicky Wiwchar as a prep cook. Olga had many hobbies including: gardening, cooking, baking, playing cards and trying new recipes that she passed along to her family. She travelled only a few times by air to family weddings in Ontario and B.C.

Her greatest joy was her grandchildren and great-grandchildren whom she dearly loved. Olga was a true inspiration to her family especially to the grandchildren with her words of wisdom. She brought humour and warmth to everything and to everyone. Olga will be dearly missed by all.

She is lovingly remembered by her son Don (Treena) Heshka of Canora; her daughters: Dianne Becking (companion Zenith Kotyk) of Amsterdam, SK, Geraldine (Dan) Oystryk of Leduc, AB and Joanne (Craig) Koski of Humboldt, SK; her nine grandchildren: Craig Becking, Jessica Kennedy, Trevor Heshka, Krista Panayides, Wendy Heshka, Lisa Davies, Bryan Heshka, Janna Koski and Jaylene Koski; her seven great grandchildren: Kali Becking, Kaitlyn Kennedy, Noah Becking, Bronson Heshka, Megan Davies, Michalis Panayides, Savanah Heshka; her five brothers: Harry (Joan) Heshka of Alliston, ON, Mike (Violet) Heshka of Canora, Ernie (Joan) Heshka of Gravenhurst, ON, Dave (Phyllis) Heshka of Delta, B.C. and Wes (Arlene) Heshka of Beaton, ON; her sister Anne (John) Yuzik of Orcadia, SK and her sisters-in-law: Mary Lozinski of Canora and Jean (Tony) Yaremko of Burnaby, B.C.