VERNA MARGARET PARFENIUK (HNATYSZYN)

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VERNA MARGARET PARFENIUK (nee HNATYSZYN) September 8, 1932 October 11, 2014 After a long and hard-fought battle, Verna chose to pass away peacefully in her sleep. Predeceased by her much-loved husband Edward, Verna leaves behind her devoted and grieving sons Darren (Kim) and Garth (Chris, granddaughters Casey and Jenna). She also leaves behind her sister Nancy, who cared tirelessly for her during these past several difficult years. Verna attended Aberdeen and St. John's High School in Winnipeg, where she excelled in sports and music. She especially enjoyed singing, particularly opera where she took on leading roles in numerous Gilbert and Sullivan operetta's. She was also a member of the Winnipeg Opera Company. She married Edward Parfeniuk and they spent years travelling and living in places such as Buenos Aires, Quebec City, Cleveland and Montreal with Ed's work. After the birth of her sons, Verna went into real estate and became a top agent for Canada Trust. In 1987 she became part owner of the Remax franchise office on McPhillips St. in Winnipeg. While she was healthy she led an active and happy life divided between her career and the family and many friends that she had. She was a groundbreaker for women in the industry, working her way to the top through her determination and grit. She had many friends and associates and was well respected by clients and competitors alike. Verna lived life large. She was fearless and colourful. She always spoke her mind and could be counted on to give real advice and opinions, even if they were unpopular ones. She was unique, energetic, interesting and interested. There will be a grey and silent space in the places that Verna once occupied. A private service will be held for the family. Those who wish can make a donation in Verna's memory to the Heart and Stroke Foundation. The family wishes to thank all the staff on the 4th floor, Unit 1 surgical ward of Seven Oaks Hospital and Dr. Klaponski for taking such wonderful care of Verna. The family is especially grateful to Dr. Nicole Mercier, Verna's devoted physician and good friend. A Journey Don't think of her as gone away, her journey's just begun. Life holds so many facets, this earth is only one. Just think of her as resting, from sorrow, aches and pain in a comfort place called heaven, where soon we'll be together again. Think of her living in the hearts of those she touched. For nothing loved is ever lost, and she was loved so much. Glen Eden Funeral Home and Cemetery 204-338-7111

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Oct 16, 2014