Obituary of VICTORIA TYCHOLIS

It is with love and sadness we announce the peaceful passing of our “Queen Victoria”. Vicki was welcomed into Heaven on October 12, 2021, with Dad being by her side until the very end. She will be deeply missed by husband Edward of 56 years; son Gerald (Estelle), daughter Janice (Mark) and her treasured grandchildren Hunter and Skyler. She also leaves behind her brother Morris Subtelny (Carole), sister-in-law Pat Lukie (Bryan), brother-in-law Larry Tycholis (Evelyn) and an extended family of nieces, nephews, cousins and many friends.

Vicki was born on August 29, 1944 in British Columbia. Soon after her family moved to Grandview, Manitoba where the true meaning of family, friends and church life became incredibly important. From Grandview, the family moved to Winnipeg where Vicki was schooled and taught by the Sister Servants of Mary Immaculate. After graduation, she entered the secretarial workforce, married, became a stay-at-home Mom, and invested immeasurable support and time in the origins of the family business. When M.E.L. Excavating and Cartage took off, Vicki craved the social aspect of returning to work and did so with other companies in sales and distribution. Through all her roles and responsibilities, Mom was instrumental in caring for many people, her grandchildren, lifelong friends, family and or other’s children. Most importantly, a cherished role she assumed was caring deeply for the needs of her sister, Elizabeth. Vicki was extremely watchful, involved and committed to Elizabeth, which in return saved many people from stress and worry.

Mom always found time to volunteer and help out whenever an opportunity came her way. No doubt, her favourite being that of Baba. Often too, she took charge in hosting large gatherings of which she never left anyone out. She possessed a “hostess with the mostest” Ukrainian mentality that could not be beat. For Vicki, it was “the door is always open”, whether people came over for a simple visit, to stay a weekend or to live for months at a time, Mom provided a home atmosphere to all. It was in this amazing quality, that her faith and deep Ukrainian roots shined. Conversing, connecting, feeding and providing for others in her and Dad’s home was magical. No one went hungry, or thirsty, felt lonely, or under appreciated, when Vicki was in charge. Throughout any one person’s visit, she quietly placed God in the centre to inspire and comfort all visitors. Whether it be the visible crucifix, a church bulletin within view or a Divine Liturgy to attend, Mom was not shy to bring her love of Christ to all. Mom gave of herself unconditionally and yet still found time to travel, camp, cottage, attend concerts and festivals, shop, enjoy a coffee, clean house, sew, knit, cook, garden, pickle, can and freeze delicious goods. Many have had the pleasure of being in her company for this or have been in receipt of her hand made gifts. Vicki naturally imitated the Lord’s example of being generous by opening her heart and home to everyone. Never wanting anything in return, she only just recently asked for prayers. Mom bravely accepted, fought hard and never took any pity during her battle with cancer. She was the one to remind us “it is what it is” and “what will be will be”. Not one to shy away from the crosses Jesus asked of her to carry.

Vicki’s sense of humour, contagious laugh, great joy and wit were all a part of her until the end. Her deep religious convictions were expressed by being a dedicated parishioner of St. Joseph’s Ukrainian Catholic Church and a member of the Ukrainian Catholic Women’s League. God’s presence in her life and her love for the Blessed Virgin Mary allowed for deep strength and courage. A gift she is now enjoying in God’s Heavenly Kingdom.

Our family has many thanks to give. First and foremost to Dad. It was because of his unwavering devotion, love, support and great care that made it possible for Mom to stay at home throughout her illness. A huge thank you is extended to the amazing teams of Dr. S. Banerji and Dr. A. Kaufmann from Cancer Care Manitoba, to Dr. G. Lipinski, Fr. Bohdan Lukie and Fr. Dymtro Dnistrian. Thank you also to the amazing people who showed up, prayed, supported and genuinely cared. We are forever grateful!

Due to capacity restrictions related to Covid, a private, invite only funeral service will be held. All who are invited must mask and be double vaccinated. Vicki was not a fan of flowers or cards. Please redirect your good intentions and kindness in the form of a donation to St. Joseph’s Ukrainian Catholic Church Building Fund and/or to CancerCare Manitoba.