Obituary of JANINA NITYCHORUK

JANINA NITYCHORUK

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our mother and grandmother, Janina on May 4, 2021 at the age of 81. She is rejoining the love of her life, Marian Nitychoruk, who passed away 10 years before her.

Janina was born on the family farm in Poland in 1939 as the war swept over their countryside. With intelligence, deep faith, and a strong sense of humour and purpose, she rose above adversity and embraced life's adventures. Janina earned a stipend for her education and chose to become a teacher. Her first job brought her to Marian's village, and during the opening school concert, he was lovestruck by this new teacher. The young couple enjoyed all the local dances, arriving together by motorcycle. When the opportunity suddenly arose, Marian came to Canada, with Janina's blessing and with his promise to send for her when settled. In 1962, they married at Holy Ghost Church in Winnipeg and Janina began teaching Polish classes for the Parish. Over the years she made many lifelong friendships with colleagues and parents, and took joy in catching up with former students. As our family grew into five children, her love of teaching never waned. Janina taught the Polish after-school program with Seven Oaks school division, and adult evening classes at St. John's High School. Her Catholic faith, her family, and the value of education were most important.

Janina had an abundance of energy and determination. Although she had her motorcycle license in Poland, she did not drive in Canada. She preferred to power walk great distances to get things done. With Marian's carpentry skills, their family home was hand built, but Janina as "project manager' arranged for property purchase, permits and building materials. They made a great team. An acreage allowed for the harvest of every variety of vegetable, which put us all to work in the garden. Family days at the beach were the highlight of summer. Marian enjoyed the water with the kids, while Janina avoided it like a cat. On her beach chair, she finally took a rest in the sun.

Janina had a strong will and a tender heart. In her many years with HomeCare, she loved her clients and treated them with dignity and compassion. She especially loved becoming a Babka herself, to her 11 grandchildren and cared for them with great pride. In the weeks before she passed, Janina became a great grandmother, and calling her "Pra Babka" always brought a smile to her face.

Over the past 10 years, Janina spoke of Marian often, with a fondness for the life they built together. In our sadness, the family is comforted by the thought that they are reunited.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated (and live streamed at www.holyghost.ca, please click on ‘Broadcast’ select Live Stream, and view the YouTube channel ) on Friday, May 14th, 10:00a.m. at Holy Ghost Roman Catholic Church, with prayers to precede the service. Internment will follow at Holy Ghost Cemetery.

Donations in memory of Janina may be made to Holy Ghost School (319 Selkirk Ave) 204-582-1053, in support of the Heritage Language Program and tuition bursary.