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LAURA JEAN HEWLKO
Born: Mar 04, 1924
Date of Passing: Nov 27, 2023
Send Flowers to the Family Offer Condolences or MemoryLAURA JEAN HEWLKO
Laura Jean Hewlko passed away on November 27, 2023, at the Deer Lodge Centre in Winnipeg at the age of 99.
Born on March 4, 1924, to Esther and Arthur Wotton in Foxwarren, MB, Laura was the third of four children in a loving family. She is remembered as a woman of principle and selflessness, valuing integrity and community above all.
From a young age, Laura displayed an affinity for music, mastering the piano and achieving her Grade 10 level and then playing the trombone in her school band. After completing high school, she began her teaching career in Binscarth, MB, later attending teachers’ college in Winnipeg. It was during this time that she met Frank Hewlko, a young sailor, sparking a connection that would become the cornerstone of her life.
Laura and Frank's love flourished via letters sent throughout Frank's naval training on the East Coast during the Second World War. Their marriage in 1947, in Laura’s hometown of Foxwarren, began a remarkable union filled with 72 years of love, adventure, and shared passions.
In 1948, Frank purchased a bakery in Gilbert Plains, where they raised their three sons, Larry, Bruce, and Guy. Laura's involvement in her community extended beyond teaching; she spent two terms as a trustee for the Intermountain School Division and actively participated in the United Church, teaching Sunday School and singing in the choir. She was a woman of many talents, crafting exquisite quilts for her grandchildren and displaying her athleticism through activities like curling, golf, and even water-skiing during summers at Blue Lake in the Duck Mountains.
Frank consistently praised Laura's exceptional pie-making skills, preferring her creations over those from his own bakery. Their home radiated warmth and hospitality, a testament to Laura's exceptional organizational skills and culinary talents that graciously welcomed guests with sumptuous meals and delightful hors d’oeuvres.
In 1976, they relocated to Winnipeg, where Frank pursued a career in life insurance. Laura joined the Charleswood United Church and engaged in activities at the Charleswood Curling and Blumberg Golf Clubs. She cultivated a vibrant circle of women friends, bonded by a shared passion for sports, camaraderie, and their willingness to travel for tournaments and bonspiels across the province.
Retirement allowed them to savour 25 winters at their second home in Mesa, Arizona. Laura cherished her time singing in the choir, swimming, and golfing.
Their home in Tuxedo Estates became a hub for entertaining, showcasing Laura's warmth and hospitality. Even as they moved to assisted living, Laura remained vibrant, engaging in bridge games, reading avidly, and conquering daily crossword puzzles.
In 2017, health challenges led Laura to Deer Lodge Centre, where she was joined by Frank in 2018. Their enduring commitment to each other was a testament to their lifelong love story.
The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff at Tower four, Deer Lodge Centre, for their dedicated care.
She was preceded in death by Frank in 2019. Laura leaves behind a legacy cherished by her three sons, Larry (Shayne), Bruce (Sonia) and Guy (Brenda); six grandchildren, Christie, Cory, Shannon, Odessa, Mallory and Brittany; and six great-grandchildren, Lola, Liam, Dillon, Ted, Cooper and Remi.
A celebration of Laura and Frank's remarkable lives will be held on Tuesday, December 12, at 10:00 a.m. at Chapel Lawn Funeral Home, 4000 Portage Ave.
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Dec 02, 2023, Dec 02, 2023
Condolences & Memories (1 entries)
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My Mother Frances Hawryluk King her second cousin 1* removed and father Roy King always had nothing but kindness and affection for Frank and Laura. Joining them a couple of times in Mesa. They kept in contact with them over the years. My parents have both passed away as well. Condolences to the family and sorry for your loss. - Posted by: Rae McKenna (Frank is my 2nd cousin 2* removed) on: Dec 04, 2023
