HELEN KOSLOWSKY

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HELEN KOSLOWSKY On November 1, 2017, our aunt and sister-in-law, Helen Koslowsky, passed away after declining health. Helen was born on November 5, 1925 in Sergejewka, Russia, to Peter Koslowsky and Agatha (Kasper) Koslowsky. The Koslowskys, having immigrated to Canada in 1926 with their three children, lived on a farm just north of Niverville, Manitoba for many years, moving into town in 1945, where Opa Koslowsky managed the local Credit Union. Helen was the third child of five born to the Koslowsky family and, despite her handicaps caused by a severe case of polio at age three, lived quite a full life and managed to outlive her parents and four siblings, Mary, Peter, John and Anne. We grew up seeing "Tante Lena" as Oma's right hand helper. She enjoyed playing records, gardening, and loved her pet budgie. Her communication skills were limited but she was friendly and kind. We thought she was a very special aunt. Her smile and laugh were infectious. The Koslowskys attended the Mennonite Brethren Church in Niverville, where Helen was baptized in the Red River. She attended Le Blanc School, completing Grade 6, despite her physical and mental challenges. Helen had difficulty writing, but did neat work and smiled with satisfaction when done. The teachers were patient and kind. After her parents died in 1971, Helen, with family assistance, moved into her own apartment in Winnipeg, and managed quite well. She attended the Portage Avenue Mennonite Brethren Church and enjoyed activities in her apartment complex. Helen loved playing games, doing puzzles, word searches, and tour-bus trips with friends. She enjoyed embroidering tea towel sets which she gave as wedding gifts. When she could no longer look after herself, Helen moved to Donwood Manor for the last years of her life. Visits were always pleasant, but conversation was limited. We have good memories of our smiling aunt. Thank you, Tante Lena, for your endearing presence among us. A memorial service will be held for Helen Koslowsky on Tuesday, December 19 at 7:00 p.m. at Friends Funeral Service, 2146 Main Street.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Dec 16, 2017