Obituary of Dorothy Kiesman

DOROTHY KIESMAN (nee Chobotar) Peacefully, surrounded by family, Dorothy Kiesman passed away at the Grace Hospice on Saturday, October 16th 2010. She was predeceased by her parents, George and Elena Chobotar, infant siblings Alex and William and sister-in-law Gloria Chobotar. She is survived by daughter Bonnie (Gary) Persowich, sons Mitch (Shirley) Kiesman and Greg (Maurita) Kiesman, grandchildren Alex, Anasia, John, Caleigh, Daniel, and Thomas. She also leaves behind her sister Mary (Sam) Mandzuik and brothers John Chobotar and Nick (Rosalie) Chobotar and numerous nieces and nephews. She will be fondly remembered by many dear cousins, neighbours and friends. Dorothy was born on Oct. 22, 1931 in Sirko, MB. She grew up on the farm and loved the farm life. She attended Ackland School in her youth and then moved to Winnipeg for employment. She had a strong work ethic, and was well respected by her co-workers. She enjoyed the simple things in life including family meals, trips to Sirko, going to church, high school and Bison football games, embroidering, knitting, puzzles, baking, going for walks, gardening, making new friends and having a cup of coffee with old friends. Nothing was more important to Mom than her family. She was a devoted mother who sacrificed selflessly for her children. Later in life, Dorothy's mission was being BABA. Baba ensured that her grandchildren were well cared for and was devoted to their well being and happiness. Baba never missed a game or performance. She was their biggest cheerleader and was fiercely proud of all of her grandchildren. She was a lifelong member of the St. Elias Ukrainian Orthodox Church in Sirko, MB and for the past number of years was a respected member at St. Michaels' Ukrainian Orthodox Church in Winnipeg. She was in charge of baking the church bread and enjoyed teaching children the art of baking paska and writing Easter eggs. Mom was famous for her paska, kolaches, perogies, perishke and "scuffles" pastry. She generously shared her delicious baking, which she lovingly crafted in her tiny apartment kitchen. Throughout her life, Mom always valued and respected the individuality of the people around her. She fostered relationships with both young and old. She had a great sense of humour which allowed her to make friends easily. She was kind, courteous, sociable and nurturing. Dorothy was a good teacher and had an independent spirit, assertive when necessary. Mom faced her illness with grace, dignity and acceptance. She made sure her room was a happy place and made use of her remaining time to say "I love you" and "goodbye". She was thankful to God for the gifts in her life. We will all miss her sound advice, warm hugs and her little giggle. The family would like to thank all the staff of the St. Boniface Hospital 6E ward and Grace Hospice for their kind, respectful care of our Mom. She appreciated whatever service was provided, whether it was cleaning the floor or washing her back. We would also like to thank the numerous family, friends, and clergy who supported her during this difficult time. We are grateful for Dorothy's life and the example she has set for us. Prayers will be said on Tuesday, October 19 at 7:00 p.m. at Cropo Funeral Chapel, 1442 Main Street. Funeral Service will be held on Thursday, October 21 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Elias Ukrainian Orthodox Church in Sirko, MB. Interment to follow in the parish cemetery. Flowers gratefully declined. Donations in memory of Dorothy Kiesman can be made to Children's Hospital Foundation. Vichnaya Pam'Yat (Memory Eternal) Cropo Fueneral Chapel 586-8044