EDITH CHRISTINE DONDO (RUSSIN)

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EDITH CHRISTINE DONDO
(née RUSSIN)
August 21, 1932 - May 10, 2020

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our Mom, Edith Dondo, in the early hours of Mother's Day, May 10, 2020.
Edith was born in Pine River, Manitoba, on August 21, 1932, to Michael and Pauline Russin (née Shmigelski). Her father was a country school teacher for many years which meant the family moved around the Interlake region.
They moved to Winnipeg when her brother, Gerald, was enrolled in University. She went to high school at Gordon Bell High School and was on the basketball and track teams. She was very proud of her accomplishments on the track. While in high school, she met the love of her life, Henri and they were married in June 1952. Together they had five children.
While the children were growing up, she did her best to provide a stable and safe home life for them. They always knew she would be home after school with a good meal and making sure they were ready for their next activity or school project.
Mom and Dad were very involved in their lives in Alcoholics Anonymous and Al-Anon for many years. Mom was always a very good listener and was a sponsor to others over the years. After Mom had a life changing experience and gave her heart to the Lord, she started volunteering at "It's A New Day" by answering phones for counselling. She would eventually become part of the staff as the co-ordinator for all the counsellors. This was something she enjoyed and was very good at. This was an essential part of who she was going into her later years.
Their lives always seemed to have a missionary zeal. In their early years together, they participated in a mission at Fort Alexander and then later with "Youth With A Mission" travelling to Texas, Hungary and Czechoslovakia. Mom and Dad were very active members of Zion Apostolic Church for many years and was part of the leadership as well for many years. Mom was a faithful member until such time as her mobility was becoming an issue for her.
Edith was a caring person throughout her life. She looked after her parents for many years as their health failed them.
Mom relished the times she was able to care for or visit with her grandchildren. She made sure there was always a jar of "Grandma's Famous Cookies" that they looked and waited for. No one has been able to duplicate the taste even now.
As Mom's physical and mental health began to fail, she was able to be in good spirits most of the time. She was able to make new friends when she moved into Bethania Haus apartments and then into Bethania Personal Care Home. She always had a sparkle in her eye and loved it when she had visitors.
Mom had a very soft and tender heart and it showed right up to the end. She was always concerned for other residents at Bethania who looked to be in discomfort and wanted to do something to help or get someone who could help.
Edith was predeceased by her parents, Michael and Pauline; and her husband Henri Dondo.
She is survived by her children, Rick (Carmen), Chris (Kim), Brian, Theresa and James, as well as her brother Gerald Russin, his daughters, and their families. Also left to remember her are her nine grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren, as well as cousins, in-laws, their children, and other members of her extended family.
The family wishes to thank the staff and management of the Bethania Mennonite Personal Care Home for the wonderful way she was cared for during her time there. She also wishes to thank Adina Wall, Rose Brandt, and the other friends she made during her time at Bethania Haus before taking up residence at the adjacent Personal Care Home.
A memorial service will be planned at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, please feel free to make a donation in Edith's memory to the Bethania Recreation or Pet Programs, or to a charity of your choice.

Family and friends may sign a Book of
Condolence at www.glenedenmemorial.ca.

Glen Eden Funeral Home
204-338-7111

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on May 16, 2020