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John Bereza
It is with love and heartfelt sadness that we announce the passing of our loving husband, father, and grandfather, John Bereza on August 1, 2004, at the age of 84 years, after a courageous battle with cancer.
John died peacefully with the grace and dignity that echoed his life, with his wife and daughter at his side.
Prayers will be held in the chapel of the Omega Funeral Home on Wednesday evening, August 4, 2004 at 7:00 PM.
Funeral service will be held at the Ukrainian Catholic Church of Assumption on Thursday, August 5, 2004 at 10:30 am with the Reverend Father Ernie Hafichuk Officiating, and Deacon Michael Strilec assisting.
Interment will follow in the family plot at Hillside Cemetery.
Left to cherish his memory, and celebrate his life is his beloved wife and best friend of 51 years, Nellie, his only daughter Carol (Ivor) Asham, his two precious grandchildren, Evan and Cara, one sister Pearl (Wasyl) Cebry, cousin Harry (Sonia) Bereza.
He will also be lovingly remembered by 2 nephews: Peter and Michael Cebry, special niece Lasha (Ed) Thurston, and their children Stephanie and Julie, nieces: Kelly Damenco and Luba Bereza and his extended family in Lviv, Ukraine and many close friends.
He was predeceased by his parents Dymtro & Anna Bereza, two brothers: Michalko & Harry.
John was born in Krywycia, Rawa-Ruska, Poland.
Separated from his family at the age of eighteen, like so many others, he went to work in Germany during the Second World War.
John together with his sister and her family emigrated to Canada in 1949 obtaining work at Tully farms as a sugar beet worker.
The following year John was employed as a construction worker building schools in rural Manitoba.
His next employment began with Painter’s Shoe repair, where he remained until 1953 when he established his life long dream of owning his own business, John’s Shoe Repair until his retirement in 1989.
John was a man who accomplished much in his life.
He was successful in life as he was in business.
His perfectionism and strong work ethic and his love for people provided him with the recipe for successful business.
He endured hardship in his life that shaped his character and gave him strength, courage, and integrity.
He was the Patriarch of his family possessing solid Catholic values, honor and tradition, the core values that made him the man he was.
John will be remembered for his straightforward fun loving ways, his practical nature, solid judgement, wisdom and sense of humor.
His caring gentle and compassionate manner endured him to many.
He was a dedicated husband and partner in life, celebrating 51 years of marriage.
His partnership with Nellie was based on the deepest of love, respect and commitment a couple can share.
His whole life was dedicated to the well being of his wife and daughter, and his grandchildren.
Evan and Cara were his pride and joy, and he loved them deeply.
His Catholic faith was the cornerstone of his life.
He had a tremendous faith in God and lived his life in accordance with that faith.
As a member of the Ukrainian Catholic Church of Assumption he was secretary of the Ukrainian Catholic Brotherhood, active parish member, singing in the choir and belonging to the Bingo Committee.
He was proud of his Ukrainian Culture and heritage.
John was an avid gardener, spent countless hours through spring and summer, tending his garden and geraniums.
He loved learning about new things, enjoyed reading, travelling and discussing political issues and current affairs with his friends.
He loved to play chess with Evan, was proud of Cara’s Ukrainian dancing, and all of their accomplishments.
Special thanks to his niece, Lasha Thurston, and all those who cared for him.
Should friends so desire, memorial donations may be made in John’s memory to the Central Plains Cancer Care Services, 318 Saskatchewan Ave. E., Portage la Prairie, MB. R1N 0K8.
Dad, we love you, forever and always.
Grandpa, we love you so much, and miss you terribly.
"Vichnaya Pamyat"
Ruth Margaret Ashley (nee: Jagger)
On Monday, August 25th, 2003 Ruth Margaret Ashley of Portage la Prairie passed away at the age of 84 years with her wonderful friend Hazel by her side.
Predeceased by her husband; Kenneth and son; Dwayne, she is survived by her loving daughter; Myrna and son-in-law; Richard Pears, devoted niece; Lynne Steppler and several more nieces and nephews.
Ruth was a Nurse, and worked at numerous hospitals including Morden and Bisset, Manitoba, Drumheller, Alberta and the Portage District General Hospital.
Ruth became Director of the Lions Prairie Manor at it’s inception in 1971until her retirement (approximately 13 years) after which time she remained an active member of the community.
A graveside service will take place on Monday, April 26, 2004 at 11:00 A.M. at Hillside Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, a donation to the CNIB, PO Box 32002 STN BRM B, Toronto, ON. M7Y 5R2 or a charity of your choice would be appreciated.
The Omega Funeral Home, Portage la Prairie are in care of arrangements.
Nadia Zimmer
Peacefully on Wednesday, September 1, 2004, at the Portage District General Hospital, Nadia Zimmer of Portage la Prairie, beloved wife of Stan Zimmer passed away at the age of 55 years.
Prayers will be held in the Chapel of the Omega Funeral Home on Monday, September 6, 2004, at 7:00 PM.
Funeral service will be held in the Chapel of the Omega Funeral Home Tuesday, September 7, 2004 at 10:30 AM with Reverend Father Michael Wollbaum officiating.
Interment will follow in Hillside Cemetery.
Nadia was born on August 8, 1949 in Vicenza, Italy to Gino and Marie Marachin.
In 1956, at the age of 7 years the family moved to Edson, Alberta.
A year later they moved to Edmonton. She worked at N.A.I.T. as a cook.
In March of 1974 she married Stan Zimmer who worked for the armed forces living in various bases, eventually retiring in Portage la Prairie in 1995.
Nadia worked at various places in Portage including K&G Mushroom Farm, and convenience stores up until her illness.
Nadia’s home life was her passion, and all her free time was spent with family and friends.
Predeceased by her father Gino, three sisters; Fernanda (Umbalda), Dina (Bruno) and Ida (Ed), she leaves to mourn her passing Her Mother Marie of Edmonton, Alberta, her husband Stan of Portage, two sons; Sean and Robert, daughter Sharon, and grandchildren Jordan and Jessica.
Also surviving are 2 sisters-in-law Jeanette and Mary Ann and several nieces and nephews.
Should friends so desire memorial may be made in Nadia’s name to the Central Plains Cancer Care Services, 318 Saskatchewan Ave. E., Portage la Prairie, MB. R1N 0K8,
Jean Olive Thiessen (nee Sanderson)
On Tuesday, August 24th, 2004 at the St. Boniface Hospital, Winnipeg, Jean Olive Thiessen of Portage la Prairie, beloved wife of Jim Thiessen passed away at the age of 65 years.
Funeral service will be held in the First Presbyterian Church on Friday, August 27, 2004 at 2:00 P.M. with the Reverend Jean Bryden officiating.
Interment will follow in the Hillside Cemetery.
Jean was born on July 20, 1939 at Portage la Prairie, Manitoba where she was raised and received her education.
She worked in the service industry most of her life, such as Midtown Motor Inn and Spriggs Restaurant.
On July 4, 1970 she married Jim Thiessen and together they raised their family of six children in Portage.
Jean was a member of the First Presbyterian Church.
She enjoyed bingo and especially enjoyed her wonderful grandchildren.
Predeceased by her parents, one great granddaughter; Jessie Saltise, one sister: Bell Dolejsi and one son-in-law; Clark Ducharme, she leaves to mourn her passing her husband; Jim, three sons; William (Darlene) and Bradley, all of Portage and Rodney of Salmon Arm, B.C., three daughters; Teresa (Mike) Saltise, Angela Ducharme and Roxanne (Jason) Thiessen all of Portage, six grandchildren and one great grandchild.
Also surviving is one brother; Walter (Darlene) Sanderson of Winnipeg.
Friends may call at the funeral home on Thursday evening, August 26, 2004 from 8:00 P.M. to 9:00 P.M.
Should friends so desire memorial may be made in Jean’s name to the Central Plains Cancer Care Services, 318 Saskatchewan Ave. E., Portage la Prairie, MB. R1N 0K8,
Nellie Evelyn Popko
Peacefully on Monday, August 30, 2004 at the Portage District General Hospital, Nellie E. Popko of Portage la Prairie, widow of the late John Popko, passed away at the age of 92 years.
Prayers will be held in the Chapel of the Omega Funeral Home on Monday, September 6, 2004 at 8:00.
Funeral service will be held at the Good Shepherd Roman Catholic Church on Tuesday, September 7, 2004 at 2:00 PM with the Reverend Father Michael Wollbaum officiating.
Interment will follow in Hillside Cemetery.
Nellie was born on October 25, 1911, daughter of Katherine & Alexander Sitoski, in Portage la Prairie where she was raised and received her education.
She Married John Popko in 1945.
They resided on the farm where they raised their daughters.
In 1974 they retired and moved to reside into the city of Portage.
Nellie was very active in the Roman Catholic Church.
She was a life member of the Catholic Women’s League. (St Hyacinth’s and Good Shepherd).
Nellie kept her self busy on the farm and raising her girls, she was a friend to many and made everyone welcome.
Predeceased by her parents, her husband John, two sisters Mary Lisoweski and Carrie Bullock, she leaves to mourn her passing her daughters; Betty (Jack) Demman of Prince George BC, and Carol Huen of Vancouver, grandchildren Craig & Byron of Prince George, and Kelly & Tamara of Vancouver.
Also surviving is one brother Joe (Irene) Sitoski of Prince George and several nieces and nephews.
Should friends so desire, memorial donations may be made in Nellie’s memory to the Good Shepherd Building Fund or the charity of your choice.
John Wilfred Pashee
On Tuesday, August 10, 2004 at the Health Science Centre, Winnipeg, John Wilfred Pashee of Dakota Tipi First Nation passed away at the age of 62 years.
Wake will be held at the Dakota Tipi Auditorium on Friday, August 13, 2004 at 6:00 P.M.
Funeral service will be held at Dakota Tipi Auditorium on Saturday, August 14, 2004 at 2:00 P.M. with the Pastor Jake Martens officiating.
Interment will follow in Hillside Cemetery.
John was born on February 25, 1942 son of Leonard and Agnes Pashe in Portage la Prairie.
He was raised at the Old Sioux Village and received his early education at Prince Charles School.
In his teenage years he belonged to the Army Cadets and Army Reserves.
He served with the Canadian Armed Forces in Peace keeping duties at Cypress and Germany for eleven years.
Upon returning he resided and worked at Dakota Tipi First Nation.
John enjoyed all sports, hockey, baseball etc. and he especially enjoyed spending time with his family.
Predeceased by his parents: Leonard and Agnes, twin siblings in infancy: Leon and Leona, he leaves to mourn his passing seven brothers: Randy (Marilyn) of Dakota Tipi, David (Mildred) of Brandon, Ralph, Everette (Kim), Reginald, Leonard (Shirley) all of Dakota Tipi and Allan Chaske of Winnipeg, two sisters: Angela Swan (David) of Winnipeg, Frances of Dakota Tipi and several nieces, nephews, aunts and uncles.
Should friends so desire memorial donations may be made in John’s name to a charity of your choice.
MICHAEL PASHE SR.
Oyate Wowicaq’u
It is with great sadness we announce the sudden passing of Michael Pashe Sr. on August 5, 2004 at his residence in Dakota Tipi First Nation, at the age of 78 years, beloved husband of Elsie Pashe.
The wake will take place Sunday, August 8, 2004 at the Dakota Tipi Auditorium at 3:00 P.M.
Funeral service will be held Monday, August 9, 2004 at the Dakota Tipi Auditorium at 2:00 P.M. with Rev. Donald Pratt officiating.
Traditional services will be held with Dakota Hotain Singers.
Interment will follow at the Old Sioux Village Cemetery.
Michael was born December 28, 1925 at the Old Sioux Village.
He received his education at the old Residential School.
Then Michael served in the Canadian Army from July 1944 to May 1946.
During his time in the Canadian Army he received the France & Germany Star Medal and the Canadian Volunteer Service Medal and Clasp.
Michael worked construction for many years and also worked at the Winnipeg Airport.
Michael was elected in as Chief of Dakota Tipi First Nation and was a strong voice for the people throughout the 70’s.
Michael found happiness in his family and with his grandchildren and great grandchildren who loved him so much.
He always had a story to tell or a good joke to share. Michael was a skilled hunter and provided food to many families when he could.
He enjoyed hunting with his close friend’s George Daniels, John Perswain, Jim Daniels and Bob Myran.
He enjoyed the companionship of his closest friend and cousin John Pashee.
He enjoyed his life to the fullest and will be greatly and sadly missed by his family and friends.
Predeceased by his parents Laura Pashe and step father Peter Ross, grandfather John Pashe, brothers Max Noel, Bruce Pashe, Elmer Pashe, sister Nora Bunn, son Ronny Bear, grandchildren Anthony Pashe, Elaine Pashe, George Pashe, and Sheila Elk.
He leaves to mourn his passing his wife Elsie Pashe of Dakota Tipi First Nation, his children David M. Pashe, Marjorie (Earl) Prince, Debra Pashe (Dan Woods), Sandra Pashe of Vancouver, Ashley Pashe (Lorraine Elk), Chris Pashe, Karl Stone (Janet McIvor), Maurice Pashe, Dennis Pashe of Winnipeg, Steven Pashe, Arthur Mini of Birdtail, fifty-seven grandchildren, twenty-eight great grandchildren, and cousin Audrey Remple of Vancouver.
He will be greatly missed by his grandchildren, great grandchildren, and many other relatives from the seven Dakota Nations of Manitoba, who loved him so dearly and will miss him so much.
He will always be in all their hearts forever.
Should friends so desire memorial donations may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society, 193 Sherbrook St., Winnipeg, MB, R3C 9Z9.
