December 23, 1923 - February 27, 2013
Born Anastasia Siwicki, December 23, 1923 in Mszaniec, Ternopil, Ukraine. Came to Canada in May 1928 on the Empress of Scotland, which sailed from Liverpool. Mom passed away Wednesday, February 27, 2013 in Parksville, BC.
Daughter of the late Joseph Siwicki and Ksenia Dosvocz, predeceased by her husband Leo Alho (July 2012) and her sister Sylvia Adair (August 2012). Survived by her sister Stella Quaiattini (late Zelio Quaiattini July 2012). Mother of Lynn Shushkewich (Don), Edward (Brenda Fleming - with special thanks) and Joann (Arthur Hawken); loving Baba of Seth Fleming-Alho, Senja (Gard Garshol) and Richard Hawken.
Mom was a warm, wonderful woman who embraced life. Whether on a farm, in a city or in the bush, she thrived! A hunter, fisher, forager, gardener, Mom introduced us to the wonder and beauty in the world. After successfully running the bowling alley in Wawa for twenty-two years, she and Dad enjoyed many happy years in retirement travelling all over this continent and Europe. In her eighties, Mom took up painting and examples of her incredible talent grace our walls. A welcoming, kind person, Mom loved people, especially children. She knew how to really play, enticing everyone to the magic of life. Mom was very proud of her grand-children; through her, they experienced many adventures not for the faint of heart. With her engaging smile and positive outlook, Mom saw splendor and joy everywhere, everyday, always making the best of challenging situations. She was an amazing woman who touched so many people. We will miss her courage, her energy, her determination, but especially her love.
Cremation has taken place. A service celebrating Mom will be held this summer in Sudbury, Ontario where her ashes will be interred with her parents and grand-father. Your stories and memories about Mom would be much appreciated and will be shared at her memorial. Please email joannalho@gmail.com. We would like to thank Stanford Place for giving Mom a wonderful home over the past three years.
To honour our remarkable, eclectic Mom, donations to The Trans Canada Trail, The Canadian Wildlife Federation, TV Ontario, The Boys and Girls Club of Canada or an arts centre would be appreciated.
Arrangements entrusted to Yates Funeral Service, Parksville, BC. www.yatesfuneral.ca