Peacefully on September 1, 2011, Helen Victoria Pashniak (nee Lech) passed away at the age of 98. Helen was born March 17, 1913 to Katherine (nee Kochonowski) and Florian Lech in a sod shack on the family homestead near Hodgeville Saskatchewan. From a family of thirteen she is predeceased by ten siblings, survived by sister Rose (nee Lech) Bougeois (Ralph) and brother Mike Lech (Yvette). Helen was pre-deceased by her husband, Michael Pashniak and her eldest son Ernie. She is survived by her daughter Elaine Ostrom (Gary) and sons John (Gay) and David (Linda), 13 grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren, and 4 great great grandchildren.
She will be sorely missed by her closest and dearest friend, daughter Elaine. Elaine always at her side, both supporting each other through the many challenges that came their way. Helen took great pride in her home. She loved to garden, play bridge and was a wonderful cook, always trying something new. She would spend many hours listening to the radio and later watching TV while crocheting beautiful creations like afghans, table cloths, doilies and snow flakes to hang on the Christmas tree. She loved Christmas and always made it very special for the family even during the times there was little money at hand.
Helen was also kind and generous to everyone. She loved animals and always talked about Duke "her" golden Labrador, who was her dear friend for over 12 years. The family wishes to express thanks to all the staff at Hogarth River View Manor for their dedication to the excellent care and support, which was provided over the nearly 8 years Helen was a guest there. Special thanks to Lydia Harris, Mary Jane Melita, Doctor Johnson, Nurse Alicia, Nurse Susan and Stepan Bilynskyy.
Cremation has taken place. Funeral Mass will take place in the Hogarth River View Manor Chapel at 10:00 AM on Thursday September 8, 2011, with Father James, St Agnes Parish officiating with our thanks. Interment, as Helen wished, will take place next to the grave sites of her mother and father and eldest son, Ernie at the St. Matthias cemetery near Hodgeville Saskatchewan timing will depend on the harvest and availability of family and friends.
In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Hogarth River View Manor or the charity of choice.