JOYCE STRANG

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JOYCE STRANG (née SAIK) At peace, after a lengthy illness, Joyce Strang passed away January 14, 2013, age 82. She was predeceased by her parents Geneviève Saik (née Babiak) and Peter Saik, her sister Helen Fitzsimmons, brother Lawrence Sykes, and her husband, George. She leaves behind sister Gloria Maheaux; step-children Shawna Kynoch (Daryl), Kent Strang, David Strang (Kristel van Ineveld), and Bruce Strang (Nancy Hennen); niece Jill and nephews Patrick and Robert Fitzsimmons; and grand-children Ian, Tim, and Meghan Kynoch, Mitchell van Ineveld, and Sean and Marc Strang. She didn't speak much of her childhood, but she was proud of her Polish heritage and remembered the vibrant immigrant culture of Winnipeg's North End in the 1930s. She graduated from St. John's High School and attended the Angus School of Commerce where she learned secretarial skills. She worked at the Manitoba Teachers' Society, where she met George Strang. She married George in 1970; the two were devoted to each other, sharing an interest in travel, bridge, their beloved cats and preparing gourmet meals. She kept an immaculate home and supported George in his work. She lost her husband and best friend when George died in 2000. She was a gracious, yet tenacious lady. She survived a devastating cancer surgery and chemotherapy, although the battle left her health diminished. She maintained a positive attitude, even as age gradually robbed her of her cherished home and independence. Comforted by her faith, she was ready to meet her loved ones in the afterlife. Special thanks to the staff of Deer Lodge Centre and Sturgeon Creek II, to friend Anita Cox, and to companions Deborah Chester and Iris. A memorial service will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 19, 2013 at St. Paul The Apostle Roman Catholic Church, 2400 Portage Avenue. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Manitoba Blue Cross George J. Strang Scholarship at Brandon University, Institutional Advancement, 270 18th Street, Brandon, MB R7A 6A9. NEIL BARDAL FUNERAL CENTRE 204-949-2200 www.nbardal.mb.ca

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Jan 17, 2013