RICA THORNE (GUROWKA) -

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RICA THORNE (nee GUROWKA) 1935 - 2003 After a lengthy illness, Rica Thorne peacefully passed away with family at her side on Tuesday, August 12, 2003 at the Victoria General Hospital. Rica will be greatly missed by her sister Nina Kotelko; brother Joe Gurowka; her dear friend Janet Wikstrom and her children Sarah and Heather MacKenzie; her nieces, Nadine Murray, Marina Lansfield, Kim Gurowka-Moennick and nephew Jim Gurowka; and her many close friends whom she considered her family. Her parents, Jack and Vera Gurowka predeceased her. Rica graduated from the University of Manitoba (United College) with a B.A. and B.S.W. in 1955 and 1957 respectively and followed with a M.S.W. in 1971. Known for her tireless committment to her profession of social work, after 32 years of dedication with the Provincial Government, in her retirement Rica continued her work through active volunteer positions at Womens Health Clinic, CESO and Age and Opportunity Services. Rica will always be remembered for her keen wit, great sense of humour and sense of equity and intense loyalty to her close friends and family. She had an insatiable thirst for learning and knowledge. Her love for travel and adventure took her to all areas of the world. Over the years, her interests and creative outlets included judo, painting, swimming, tennis and most recently stained glass, of which she created many beautiful pieces. The family wishes to thank Erica Neumann of Seniors Comfort and especially thank the many caregivers, including Chris, Tara, Sonja, Michelle, Erica and Bernadette who gave Rica such love and comfort during her final year. For all who knew and loved her, Rica leaves a void in all of our lives that is only filled by knowing that she is in a better place now filled with happiness and laughter. A memorial service will be held on Friday, August 15 at 10:00 a.m. at Chapel Lawn Funeral Home, 4000 Portage Ave. Interment and reception will follow. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Womens Health Clinic, 419 Graham Ave., Unit A, Winnipeg, MB R3C 0M3 or to the University of Manitoba, Faculty of Social Services, in her name. Arrangements in care of: CHAPEL LAWN FUNERAL HOME CEMETERY AND CREMATORIUM 885-9715

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Aug 14, 2003