Obituary of JEAN SHYMKO

JEAN (GENIA) SHYMKO

January 11, 1929 - May, 26, 2022

On Thursday, May 26, 2022 our beloved mother, baba/grandma and great grandma peacefully passed away at the age of 93 years.

Mom is survived by four children, Wayne (Patricia), Kelly (Deb), Glenn (Jennifer), Bonnie (Rod); ten grandchildren, Ryan, Lisa (Brian), Garrett, Christopher (Terri-Lynn), Adria, Mark (Nicole), Kelsey (Todd), Danika (Tanner), Hannah (Yulian) and Darian; great-grandchildren McKenna, Ryker, Brady, Wade and Haven. She is also survived by her sisters Helen (Joe) Dutchak, Irene Boitson, Emily (Bill) Evans, Olive (Eugene) Ulasy, and sister-in-laws Olga Maleski and Martha Shymko. She was predeceased by her husband Walter, parents Michael and Teresa Maleski, her siblings Stella, Joseph, Sidney, Pauline and Ann.

Mom was born and raised on the family farm near Sarto, Manitoba. Life on the farmstead was hard work, but from an early age she had a keen sense of humour and was often the instigator for many silly moments with her brothers and sisters.

After leaving the farm for the big city, Mom met her future husband Walter, and new adventures began.  She was never afraid to try anything — water skiing at White Lake, closing down a casino in Vegas, or riding a horse when she was 80 years old — mom was always ready for some excitement!

Mom’s Ukrainian heritage, and her faith, were very important parts of her life.  If she couldn’t attend church services, she was watching a Divine Liturgy on TV, or listening to one on the radio.  When she was able, she always participated in supporting church functions and events.  Mom always looked forward to celebrating Ukrainian traditions, especially at Easter and Christmas.

Mom was an exceptional homemaker and cook. Her doors were always open for anyone who dropped by for a coffee and dessert … or a full course meal!  Family dinners were especially to her.  She thoughtfully prepared something special for each person's taste and knew everyone's favourite dishes. Mom also made sure there were always plenty of leftovers for everyone to take home and enjoy for days after!  Even in the weeks prior to her passing away, Mom mentioned that she still wanted to make a few more dozen perogies and her famous "Halyna Buns".

Mom’s kind and gentle character touched countless people.  Whether it be spending time with her brothers and sisters, or attending her grandchildren’s concerts and activities, she spread her gracious and warm personality wherever she was. Even in her final days, the medical staff caring for Mom, commented on her warm and caring nature.

The family sends their thanks to Dr. Irena Darczewski for the many years of care.  Gratitude is also extended to the staff at Holy Family Home who made Mom’s final days comfortable and peaceful.

The funeral will be held 10:00AM, Friday, June 3, 2022 at St. Joseph’s Ukrainian Catholic Church,  250 Jefferson Avenue, with interment to follow at Glen Eden Cemetery, 4477 Main Street. Pallbearers will be Ryan Shymko, Chris Shymko, Mark Shymko, Darian Picklyk, Devin Boitson and Yulian Zyakun.

In lieu of flowers please make a donation, in memory of Jean Shymko, to the Immaculate Heart of Mary School – Ukraine Student Relief Fund (supporting the educational needs of students and their families, that have fled the war in Ukraine), https://lubovfoundation.thankyou4caring.org/pages/ihms---ukraine-student-relief-fund or, a charity of your choice.

Вічная Пам'ять – Everlasting Memories