Obituary of MARY JANE BILOUS

MARY JANE BILOUS (nee GROCHOLSKI) February 27, 1930 - February 17, 2014 Peacefully on Monday, February 17, 2014, Mary Jane Bilous passed away at the Victoria General Hospital, at the age of 83. She was predeceased by her beloved husband Gerald Russell Bilous on January 27, 1997. She leaves to mourn her passing daughter Lynne Opperman (Gary), son Richard Bilous (MaryEllen), and daughter Constance Bilous; grandchildren Rhennata Opperman (Maria Forester), Michelle Street (Chris), Elayna Bilous, Matthew Bilous, and step-granddaughter April Pritchard; great-grandchildren Turner and Landon Street; sister-in-law and brother-in-law Anne and Jack Drapack; nieces Kim McIvor (Lee) and Maeve Kano (Hideki); nephews Danny Grocholski (Dawn) and John Drapack (Alix); as well as very dear friends Elsie and George Felbel and their son Brian. Mary was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba where she met the love of her life Gerry Bilous. They married on February 16, 1952 and spent many wonderful, happy years together. They loved entertaining their friends and enjoyed their many trips down south. Mary was a strong, hard-working, independent woman “ahead of her time” and was an owner/broker of her own Autopac Agency until her retirement. During her career she made numerous lasting friendships all while maintaining a successful business. Mary loved animals and quietly provided treats to those occasional cats that frequented her doorstep. She also had quite a passion for raising cockatiels housing them in her “bird room”. Although she enjoyed an evening out she could often be heard saying “I’ve got to get home and feed my birds”. Mary was devoted to her family and looked forward to their Sunday dinners where many stories and much laughter was shared. Mom made the best cabbage rolls and tastiest lemon meringue pie. The family wishes to thank the home care aides and home care nurses for their daily visits and the nurses and doctors at the Victoria General Hospital for their compassionate care. According to Mary’s wishes, there will be no formal service. Cremation has taken place and a private family service was held. Cropo Funeral Chapel was in care of arrangements. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the Winnipeg Humane Society, 45 Hurst Way, Winnipeg, MB R3T 0R3 or to a charity of your choice. “Perhaps they are not the stars But rather openings in Heaven, Where the love of our lost ones Pours through and shines down upon us, To let us know they are happy.” “Rest in Peace, Mom.”