Obituary of OLGA (OLLIE) KLOWAK

OLGA (OLLIE) KLOWAK January 28, 1932 – May 25, 2016 Surrounded by the love of her family, Olga Klowak (Panchuk) passed away peacefully on May 25, 2016 at Riverview Health Centre at the age of 84 years. She is survived by her sister Irene Koski (Panchuk); her children George (Cathy), Marianne (Bert); her grandchildren Jonathan, Danielle and Luke; and brother-in-law Bernard Klowak (Olia). Ollie was born January 28, 1932 in Winnipeg. She was predeceased by her parents Peter and Sophie Panchuk from Ukraine; and husband Norman Klowak. As a devout and joyful Catholic, Ollie attended mass in the Knights of Columbus chapel where she was the daily reader. Her faith defined who she was and gave her the grace to accept her illness with courage and optimism. She was raised on Grove Street in the Point Douglas area where she made many valued lifelong friends. She loved to listen to music and attended many dances in her youth with cousin Daria and best friend Verna. Ollie married Norman in 1954 and together raised their family in Fisher Branch, the North End and East Kildonan. Ollie was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, friend and neighbour who always put others before herself. Baba enjoyed nothing more than spending precious time with her grandchildren. They were her pride and joy. She was always very supportive and the loudest cheerleader at their many activities. Jonathan, Danielle and Luke meant the world to her. Ollie had a unique sense of humour and enjoyed making others laugh with her down-to-earth view of the world. As a cook, mother embraced her Ukrainian heritage. Borscht, holopchi, meatballs and perohy smothered with bacon, butter and onions were just some of the many delicious specialties at Ollie’s Ukrainian kitchen. The wonderful food that came from her kitchen was sought after and those who were lucky enough to taste it usually asked for more. Everyone was welcome at her table. She was known to whip up many late night meals for hungry teens. Over the years she was employed at The Bank of Montreal, Dutch Maid Ice Cream, Laura Secord in Eatons and F.W. Woolworth. Mom had a real passion for animals that included canines Smokey and Brandy, and visits with Lucky the bunny. The family would like to extend our most heartfelt thanks to the entire staff at Riverview Health Centre 3rd floor Palliative Wing especially Dr. Harlos, Dr. Garcia and Dr. McClure for their excellent care and compassion. Special thanks to Father Jaworski, Sister Janice, Sister Daria, close friends at Holy Family Nursing Home, and all those who offered their prayers of support. Rest in peace dear mama. We love you and miss you dearly. Prayers will be said on Thursday, June 2 at 7:00 p.m. at St. Andrew’s Ukrainian Catholic Church, 160 Euclid Street. Divine Liturgy will be celebrated on Friday, June 3 at 10:30 a.m. also at the Church. Interment to follow at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Ollie's memory to Riverview Palliative Wing 3E.