Obituary of Helen KOMINOWSKI

HELEN KOMINOWSKI Peacefully with family by her side, Helen (Olenka) Kominowski (ne� Ewashkiw), passed away on Thursday, June 17, 2010, at Concordia Hospital, age 75. Besides her husband Victor of 51 years, she is survived by: daughter Patricia, and son James. She also leaves to mourn her passing: her sister, Stephanie Glowacki; sister-in-law Bernice Kominowski; brothers-in-law Joseph Kelly and Stanley Kominowski; cousin Ollie Hawryluk; her nieces and nephews; and her extended family in Ukraine. She will also be missed by her beloved cat, Basil. Helen was predeceased by her parents Michael and Anna Ewashkiw, and brother Stepan. Helen was born in Winnipeg on October 31, 1934. She attended William Whyte School and Isaac Newton High School. She was employed in the offices of the Winnipeg Free Press and Auto Electric, as well as obtaining a license in hair dressing, until deciding to stay at home to raise her young family. Helen was blessed with a beautiful singing voice. She was a classically trained coloratura soprano under the guidance of Professor Petro Riabowal-Labinsky. She competed at various singing festivals, and for several years sung sacred and classical pieces at weddings. Helen enjoyed crocheting tremendously, as well as other handicrafts, where she was told by many that she had "golden hands". Helen was a wonderful cook, and was often complemented for this. She cherished her Ukrainian heritage, and instilled this in her children. Helen was very proud of her children, encouraging them to strive for the best, and always noting the value of education. Her Catholic faith was very important to her, and along with the love and support of her family, she successfully fought and became a breast cancer survivor. During the last 6 months her health slowly declined, but not her faith in God. The family would especially like to thank Dr. Benjamin Komenda and Dr. Stephen Henry for the care Helen received during her stay at Concordia Hospital, as well as the kindness shown by nurses, Angela, Anna, Anne, Donna-Marie, Eileen, and Osmond (to name just a few). In addition, the family is eternally grateful to the other staff members of Concordia Hospital who showed such compassion towards Helen and her family during her final hours. If friends so desire, donations may be made to the WRHA Breast Health Centre (608-400 Tach� Ave.), or to the Winnipeg Humane Society. A private funeral mass has taken place, with interment to follow at a later date. We will never forget your beautiful green eyes and your kind and genuine smile. We will always love you, and never forget you! We will see you in Heaven one day. Vichnaya pamyat!