Obituary of SYLVIA UNRUH

Sylvia UnRuh

July 28, 1928 – February 27, 2024

Sylvia UnRuh, a beloved great-grandmother, grandmother, mother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on February 27, 2024, at the age of 95. She was born on July 28, 1928, in Leask, Saskatchewan, to Ovila and Anna Benoit.

She married Ernie UnRuh on December 27, 1950, and they shared almost 54 years of marriage until his death in 2004.

Sylvia was a devoted Catholic and attended Holy Redeemer and St Alphonsus parishes in Winnipeg. She enjoyed painting, singing, baking, and looking after her extended family. She was always generous, kind, and cheerful. She touched many lives with her warmth and wisdom. Many family and friends treasured her annual Christmas card which was designed and hand painted by her each year.

She is survived by her two daughters, Jo-Ann (Henny) Bakker and Caryl (Gary) Cockshott; her four sons, David (Robyn), Donald, Daryl, and Dwane (Helen); her six grandchildren, Christina (Chris) Stratman, Michael (Christina), Chantal (Andre) Crites, Tamara (Tom), Janel (Manolo), and Isabella; and her six great-grandchildren, William, Zachary, Joshua, Lucas, Niko, and Thea. She is also survived by many nieces, nephews, and friends. She was predeceased by her husband, Ernie; her parents, and all of her 9 siblings. 

The family would like to especially thank the staff at River Ridge 1 and 2, and Manitoba Home Care, who looked after Mom so well during the last 18 months of her life. 

A private family ceremony was held on March 6, 2024, at her River Ridge 2 Assisted Living Chapel. A Celebration of Life will be held in Winnipeg later this summer, followed by Interment at Glen Eden Cemetery. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Alzheimer Society of Canada, Friends of The Mennonite Centre in the Ukraine, the Canadian Cancer Society, or another charitable organization, in Sylvia's memory.