Obituary of Nadia WEREMIUK

NADIA WEREMIUK On Tuesday, September 2, 2008, at the age of 101, Nadia Weremiuk peacefully left this earth. She was predeceased by husband Roman, son Walter, daughter Nina and son-in-law Larry Burtniak. Left to mourn her passing are: daughter-in-law Vera Weremiuk, 5 grandchildren Linda Henderson (Edelmiro) Lorraine Kraichy (Stephen), Larry Weremiuk (Diana), Lisa Kolness, and Blair Burtniak (Ingrid). Nadia leaves a legacy of 7 great-grandchildren: Walter Henderson (Kellie), Michael and David Kraichy, Tyler Kolness, Brett and Katee Weremiuk, Julian Burtniak and great-great grandson Roman Henderson. Nadia Solyshko was born near Brest, Belorussia on April 10, 1907, the 5th of six children. She married Roman Weremiuk in 1925, and in 1929, together with son Walter, immigrated to Canada, settling in Winnipeg. Three years later their daughter Nina was born. Although Nadia had limited formal education, her learning continued, mastering Russian, Ukrainian, Polish, and enough English to survive in her chosen land. Self taught, she perfected the fine art of crochet, producing countless doilies and tablecloths, gleaning first prize at the Red River Exhibition. Her faith accompanied her through life. Nadia and Roman were devoted members of Holy Trinity Russian Greek Orthodox Sobor and trusted elders of their parish. The Julian calendar was strictly followed with Christmas and Easter traditions observed. With her rich alto, Nadia was a constant voice in the choir, a gift passed on through her children and grandchildren. Church fundraising was ongoing, and Nadia's cooking expertise was unwavering for banquets and hundreds of perogy sales. Nadia worked for a time in sewing factories, but home is where she loved best. Her family was paramount. As grandchildren came along, "Babushka" was the only title she wished, each toddler struggling through the word till they wrapped their tongue lovingly around it. Babushka looked after us all. She nurtured each of us, while our parents worked, cooking meals, walking us to school, and keeping us under her strict and watchful eye. She was the consummate cook. Her perogies were velvet and other dishes renowned, much to the delight of her grateful family. She was an excellent hostess, cooking for days to entertain a dozen at a time. A sing-along followed each of these events, with beautiful Russian melodies and haunting harmonies. Along with her many talents, Nadia kept a perfect house indoors and out. A full vegetable garden was a must and flowers adorned her entire yard. Geranium cuttings and tomato plants from seed, were her specialty. Grass was always kept short and hardly a snowflake was allowed to rest on a walkway before being swept away. Babushka loved us all and was loved in return. We each carry our private memories of her. She will be missed by her Winnipeg family and those who survive her in Belorussia. Nadia and Roman instilled generosity to a fault, a legacy her family at home and abroad will enjoy forever. The family wishes to thank all Nadia's caregivers at Fred Douglas Lodge, where she resided for 10 years. Cremation has taken place. Nadia will be laid to rest beside her beloved husband Roman, in Elmwood Cemetery. A private family service will be held. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Fred Douglas Lodge Personal Care Home at 1275 Burrows Avenue R2X 0B8, or a charity of one's choice. WE LOVE YOU, BABUSHKA Cropo Chapel 586-8044