Obituary of JULIA CUSHING

Julia Cushing

Née  Fijal

1922-2025

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Julia Cushing on Tuesday, December 30, 2025 at the age of 103.

Cremation has taken place and there will be a memorial mass to celebrate Julia’s life at 11AM, on January 30 at St. John Brebeuf Roman Catholic Church, 1707 Brebeuf Place. A reception will be held at the Parish Hall following the service. All who wish to pay their respects are welcome. In lieu of flowers, if you wish to remember Julia, please do so with a kind word or deed to someone who needs you. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Julia was born in Winnipeg, MB, the city she called home for over a century. She was very proud of being Canadian and of her Polish heritage, often sharing stories about growing up in East Kildonan, helping her mother make Polish treats, spending Sundays at St. Alphonsus Parish with family, or dancing the night away at Socials.

Julia, known as Julie or Judy to some, began working at age 17. She worked a variety of jobs during WWII, including finishing furniture and riveting aircraft. Her true talents came to light when she began working for the Eaton’s cash office, where her skilled organization and natural ability for quick mathematics became clear. A rising star within the company, Julia was soon promoted to Manager.

In 1961, Julia married John Cushing and left Winnipeg to start her family in Toronto. Her daughter, Julie Cushing, was born in December of 1962. She returned to Winnipeg with her daughter in 1963 and found work as a personal chef in Tuxedo. Mr. John Woods treated them like family, providing an apartment suite in his home along with her salary, where she raised her daughter for sixteen years.

After Mr. Woods’ passing in 1980, Julia found an apartment on Lanark Street in River Heights. Between his passing in 1980, and hers in 2025, she only moved as far as down the block in the same complex. This apartment was the setting of many fond memories with her family.

At this time, she met her dear friends Ross and Linda Apperley, a young couple living across the hall from her in 1979. Julia would bring them her incredible baking, Ross would help her stretch her crochet table cloth after washing it and rush to help her carry in groceries. They became great neighbours and lifelong friends. After moving to Carnduff, Ross, Linda, and their daughters, Kiana and Rachelle, continued to hold Julia in their hearts by always sending beautiful Christmas cards and life updates, remembering to call and check in with their friend. Julia also became great friends with Ross’ sister, Gerri (Michael) Apperley Anderson. The two of them spent many days together over the years laughing, shopping, and enjoying Winnipeg’s local cuisine!

During this time, she began working for the City of Winnipeg's District Offices switchboard, where she met Lee (Art) Mencik and began another friendship of over 40 years. They bonded over shared Polish culture and their Catholic faith. Julia was so charming and considerate; she made friends everywhere she went with people of all ages and backgrounds.

In 1993, Julia had the joy of becoming a grandma. Her granddaughter, Carly Julia Cushing, quickly became the light of her life. Julia did many things to support her family, but their favourite was family lunch, hosted by Julia every Sunday after Mass. In 1997, after her granddaughter was diagnosed with Celiac disease, Julia rapidly became the best gluten free baker in Winnipeg (at least according to Carly).

In 2002, she lost her beloved daughter, Julie. At 80 years old, she gave up her retired life of cribbage tournaments, vacations with friends, and spoiling her family and took in her 9-year-old granddaughter, Carly.

Carly later moved to Ottawa, but would visit often, prioritizing time and playing cards with her Nana. Julia taught her all of the essentials, including how to clean, cook, set a beautiful table, and skunk your opponent in Cribbage!

Julia passed peacefully, with her granddaughter holding her hand, at Grace Hospital on December 30th, 2025. Julia’s tips for a long life include eating a balanced diet with a small treat every day, lots of fruit, and calisthenics.

She will be deeply missed by her beloved granddaughter, Carly Julia Cushing, and her niece, Donna Jean Verner, as well as her many great nieces and nephews. Also left to mourn are her very dear friends she called her ‘angels’.

Julia was a brilliant woman and was always up to date on current news and politics. A loyal Liberal voter, she never let differing political views get in between a friendship, but still made sure to speak her mind. She kept immaculate financial records and always knew where to find the best deal. Always dressed to impress, Julia was well known for her hosting abilities. She always managed to make her guests feel comfortable and at home, while simultaneously setting a table fit to serve the Queen! Her strong will, deep love for her family and friends, and her unwavering faith in God helped her through the difficult times in her life. Julia was a very devoted grandmother and friend. Her door was always open and she cherished the time spent with frequent visitors. She was well loved and will always be remembered for the love and kindness she shared with everyone she met.

This is just a small snapshot from a full and beautiful life. Please feel free to add your stories about Julia below.