MARIA CHAR

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MARIA CHAR Sadly we announce that Maria Char passed away peacefully on Friday, April 27, 2012 at the age of 89. She was predeceased by her husband Michael, who was taken too soon on November 23, 1991. Left to cherish her memory is her son Zenon and his wife Bridget. Maria Greczuk was born in Ukraine on March 21, 1923, spending her early childhood with her family. During the Second World War she was taken as a young woman to work in the factories of Germany. At war's end she was rescued by the Allies and then sent to England where she worked in a textile factory as a carpet weaver. Maria did not often discuss her past; however sometimes she would talk about her experiences of living through air raids, the screech of sirens and evacuating to bomb shelters. After the War she tried to write to her family, but all the letters sent to Ukraine were returned by the Red Cross. Maria was never able to make contact with her family. In England Maria met her future husband Michael, marrying him February 2, 1952. Many of their friends and neighbours from Ukraine were immigrating to Canada. A year later their friends were able to sponsor them to Canada, allowing them to immigrate and settle in Winnipeg. They purchased a house on Flora Avenue in the North End where Maria lived her entire life until moving to a personal care home several years ago. In 1957, their son Zenon became part of their lives. Maria and Michael were strong supporters of an Independent Ukraine and of their church. When they arrived in Winnipeg they became members of the Ukrainian Youth Association SUM, Sts. Vladimir and Olga Ukrainian Catholic Church and the Ukrainian Canadian Institute Prosvita where they spent many days and nights at socials, weddings, Ukrainian Christmas concerts, dance recitals, and Malankas - Ukrainian New Year's Eve celebrations. Maria was a very outgoing, social person who loved to entertain and visit with friends. When everyone would get together for an event she always made sure the children got extra snacks and always kept an eye on them as they played. Maria loved the simple things in life especially mushroom and blueberry picking. She took many trips with family and friends, to one of her favourite spots in the forest areas near Gull Lake. In summer Maria and her family enjoyed going to Ukrainian Park north of Gimli on Sundays and summer vacations. She also loved to go to Watrous, Saskatchewan with her husband to relax in the hot springs. The last four years of Maria's life was spent at Vista Park Lodge. Although she gradually became more confused she still enjoyed playing games with residents and family. She was always kidding around and joking with the staff, which mentioned they wished more residents were that pleasant. The Char family would like to thank all the staff at Vista Park Lodge for their care while she resided there. Although they are sad, the family is relieved that Maria's pain is over and she is now at peace. A private service was held on Wednesday May 2, 2012 at Sts. Vladimir and Olga Ukrainian Catholic Church and Maria was buried beside her husband Michael at All Saints Cemetery. Vichnaya Pam'yat Eternal Memory!! KORBAN FUNERAL CHAPEL 204-956-2193

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on May 05, 2012