Obituary of MARY HENKEWICH (SLASHINSKY)

Mary Henkewich passed away on April 30, 2023 at Holy Family Home at the age of 98.

Mary is survived by Garry, Julie (Russell Kossack) Rick (Josie) and Glen (Kelly). Also surviving are her grandchildren, Kelly (Jason), Tania (Jeff), Nadine,  Taras (Melanie), Evania, Nik (Cara) Kendra (Jon), Rebekah, Jeremy (Erin) Carrie and Cory (Shannon). Great Grandchildren, Matthew (Priscilla), Dylan (Rebecka) Joshua (Harleen), Brayden (Alyssa), Zakrey (Jessica), Simone , Mikhayla, Sarah,  Maxym, Oksana, Emma, Hadlee, Curia and Sora. Great Great Grandchildren, Lucas, Reilly, Mila, Harper,. One brother Bill Slashinsky.

Mary was predeceased by her husband Mike, parents Onufrey and Francyna Slashinsky, brothers Alex, Metro, Mike, Steve and Phillip and sisters Anne and Tennie. 

Mom was born on the family farm in Rackham Manitoba on July 1, 1924. She attended grade school to grade 5 and at the young age of 14 she left the farm to work in Rivers, Manitoba. After leaving Rivers, Mary had journeyed to Winnipeg and found employment at various places and finally with Cara Operations at the CN Depot. Mom had enjoyed her 25 year career at Cara Operations meeting and had met incredible people. Mom also was involved with as a Shop Steward with UFCW.

Mom had met and married Mike in 1947 and in 1951 purchased a home at 976 Boyd Ave. In the mid 1960’s with the help of her father, the house was expanded to the current condition. Many family functions were held at the house where Mom would prepare and cook food for upwards of 40 people. The neighborhood on Boyd and Redwood Ave were also unique. All the neighbours were like family to Mom. When a task had to be completed all the neighbours participated and helped out. “Happy Hours” in the neighbourhood with her closest neighbours was another highlight. Daily discussion on current affairs with a nice cold beverage lasted the whole afternoon.

In the evenings and weekend, Bingo was the number one activity.  Mom would attend bingo every night of the week. Playing sixteen cards at once was not uncommon. As her grandchildren became older she would take them to bingo, make sure they played and purchased snacks as requested. Some of the grandchildren were even lucky to win bingo games under her guidance.

With living across from Blessed Virgin Mary Ukrainian Catholic Church it provided the opportunity to become part of the parish family. Mom had been part of the Bingo, Seniors, Perogy Committees. Mom was very proud of being involved in the UCWLC for 26 years. Mom enjoyed attending Sunday Liturgy, Church functions and most of all the people she met.

In 2000, Mom had moved to 305-595 Mountain Avenue where experiences, opportunities and new friendships were established. Mom would go downstairs and work on puzzles with other residents, invite friends to her suite and proudly show all her pictures of her family. She always had time for conversation.

As mom’s health issues became more prevalent, Mom moved to Holy Family Home. Our family expresses grateful appreciation and special thanks to all staff at the Holy Family Home on Unit 2A for all the excellent care and affection given to her throughout her stay. Also, we would like to send a big thankyou to Father Volodymyr Bashutskyy, Father Michael Kwiatkowski and Sister Michaila for all their support.

Prayers will be held on Sunday, May 7 at 7:00 p.m. at the Blessed Virgin Mary Ukrainian Catholic Parish located at 957 Boyd Ave Winnipeg Manitoba.

A Funeral Liturgy will be celebrated on Monday, May 8 at 10:00 a.m. at Blessed Virgin Mary Ukrainian Catholic Parish.

Both Funeral Services will be livestreamed from Blessed Virgin Mary Website: You Tube: LIVE.BVMP.CA

With respect, a private family burial will take place at Transcona Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Mary’s memory to the Holy Family Home, 165 Aberdeen Avenue, Winnipeg Manitoba R2W 1T9.