ROSE MARIE ORISE SAWKA

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ROSE MARIE ORISE SAWKA March 19, 1957 - June 1, 2012 It is with great sadness that the family announces the passing of Orise Sawka on Friday, June 1, 2012, following a lengthy illness at Riverview Personal Care Home in Winnipeg, Manitoba. She is survived by her beloved husband, Ian Lorne Sawka, along with their two sons, Steven and Paul, two sisters and one brother. She was predeceased by her mother and father, sister Noella and brothers Dennis and Leo. Orise was born in Kenora, Ontario, on March 19, 1957, to Joseph and Marie Tourond. Orise lived in Woodridge, MB, in her younger years, but went to live in a foster home in Sundown, MB, in 1966 after the death of her father in late 1965. Her mother died in 1973. Orise lived in Sundown, MB, until she met Ian Sawka, who she married on November 25, 1978 at the age of 21. She moved to Falcon Lake, Manitoba, and worked at the Falcon Motor Hotel off the 301 Highway until it burnt down, and then at the El'Nor Hotel until a tragic accident left her blind. She had two children, Steven and Paul and became a stay-at-home mom with the help of Rita Pitura and Joan Robertson, who the family would like to thank for their years of admirable service in helping take care of Orise and the children. Life threw another curve ball again on April 21, 2009, when an accident left her unable to swallow or breathe on her own. She battled through and spent the rest of her time in Health Sciences Centre and Riverview Personal Care Home until her passing. Orise was a very kind, generous and caring person. Despite having to deal with many uphill battles such as losing her parents at a young age, having myotonic dystrophy and overcoming personal struggles, she remained hopeful and always saw life with the glass as being half full. She enjoyed playing cards, painting, making beaded jewellery and spending time with her family and friends. Arrangements are being made and notice of service will follow. Arrangements by BIRCHWOOD FUNERAL CHAPEL 1-204-346-1030 OR 1-888-454-1030

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jun 09, 2012