Obituary of Patricia Pyra

Patricia Leonora Pyra (nee Wiwchar) 1937 - 2010 With tears in my eyes and a broken heart, I would like to announce that my mother Patricia Leonora Pyra, nee Wiwchar, passed away at Concordia Hospital on Saturday, May 15, 2010. My mother was my best friend and biggest fan. She devoted her life to my father and me. Throughout her life, and above all else, including herself, she made her family her most important priority. Without a doubt, we have lost one of the most beautiful people one could ever have the privilege of knowing. Mom will be deeply missed and her memory forever cherished by her devoted and loving husband of 42 years, Jack, and her only daughter, Christina. She also leaves to mourn her brother Andrew Winchar (Kae) as well as her sister-in-law Bernadette Groinus (Al) and numerous nieces and nephews along with their children. She will also be dearly missed by a large extended family and several Godchildren. Patricia was born to parents Stephen and Eugenia Wiwchar and was raised on Burrows Avenue in the North End. She attended William Whyte Elementary School and graduated from Isaac Newton High School. In 1956 Patricia obtained her teaching certificate at the Manitoba Normal School and later graduated with a B.A. and B.Ed. from the University of Manitoba. Mom and Dad met in Winnipeg when they were attendants at Dad's cousin's wedding. It was love at first sight. They married on July 15, 1967, at the Marlborough Hotel. In 1975 their only child was born. Mom had a great teaching career in the Seven Oaks School Division. She was a gifted educator and school counsellor at Jefferson Junior High and also was instrumental in introducing Ukrainian as a language of instruction at the junior high level. Mom was a very dedicated teacher and her students remember her fondly as one who counselled them by giving them positive attitudes towards resolving their problems within the school or at home. To this day her many students would spot here in a crowd and come over to share stories of the profound impact she had on so many lives. Throughout her life, Mom proudly displayed and shared her Ukrainian culture. For many years she taught Sunday School at St. Mary's the Protectress Cathedral, the same Cathedral where she participated in Ukrainian dance, choir, and CYMK. Also an Honourary Life Member of Ukrainian National Home, she and my father constantly supported the community, and raised their daughter to equally embrace and love this beautiful culture. Mom had a wonderful life as an active participant and volunteer in many organizations. She served on the executives of the Ukrainian Fraternal Society, Ukrainian National Home, Alpha Omega Alumni, St. Mary's the Protectress Cathedral, the Ukrainian Voice, Manitoba Parents for Ukrainian Education, and the Transcona Horticultural Society. She was also the canvassing District Coordinator for the Heart and Stoke Foundation. Mom was an enthusiastic dedicated volunteer at the Folklorama Kyiv Pavilion, and was Dad's right hand when he was the pavilion's coordinator. In fact, in all of our activities, it was Mom who was behind us providing unwavering support, encouragement and unconditional love. Mom enjoyed all activities involving her family and friends. Many unforgettable times were shared at the cottage at Pinawa Bay, at sporting events including the Winnipeg Jets, Blue Bombers, Manitoba Moose and Winnipeg Goldeyes, the symphony or theatre. Mom had a passion for travel and experienced many trips and cruises throughout the world including Europe, North America, Hawaii, the Caribbean, Mexico, and most recently South America. As a mother and wife, Mom ensured that Dad and I never missed out on an opportunity or experience and ensured we did our best. She never missed a game, a practice, a concert, or a last minute edit. Mom shared her talents with unbelievable patience; was a beautiful pianist and painter. Mom was truly precious - the most warm, loving and compassionate of souls. Always positive, she touched the lives of everyone she met and will forever live on in our hearts and memories. The family would like to thank Dr. Terry Babick, Home Care and staff at Concordia Hospital for their continuing care for Patricia and their efforts to find the right balance for her to live as full a life as possible. Funeral Prayers will commence at 7 pm on Wednesday, May 19 at St. Mary the Protectress Ukrainian Orthodox Cathedral, 820 Burrows Ave. The Funeral Service will be held on Thursday, May 20 at 10.00 a.m. also at the Cathedral with The Very Rev. Archpriest Dr. J. Buciora and Very Rev. Fr. Mirone Klysh officiating. Interment to follow in Elmwood Cemetery. Pallbearers will include John Barnard, James Kotowich, Bernie Pyra, Roman Solomon, Craig Winchar, and Randy Winchar. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Manitoba Heart and Stroke Foundation.