Olga Lotkowski
January 24, 1917 – November 22, 2013
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beautiful, loving mother.
Olga was born in Toronto to Pawel and Anna Woytowich. She grew up in the Ukrainian community where she joined her celebrated father on stage performing traditional plays, songs and dance. In addition to a love for the Arts, Olga was very athletic, playing for the Seberling Colts, one of the first commercially sponsored women’s softball teams in Ontario.
At 23 she won a scholarship to study voice and music in New York City. She met the love of her life, Wladyslaw, a senior officer on the MS Batory serving in the War. They married in 1947. After Wladyslaw graduated from Columbia University, they moved to the Midwest where he taught at the University of Cincinnati and North Dakota before landing a professorship at Antioch College in Ohio. Olga continued to act and sing with a university troupe as well as host a radio show on WYSO and raise two young children. Later she enjoyed a successful career as a Realtor.
They retired to Qualicum Beach in the 1970s. Olga was active in the Lighthouse Community where she served one year as President of the Ratepayers Association. She became an avid member of the floor curling club. She enjoyed swimming, walking, gardening and baking.
Olga is predeceased by her brother Jim and her husband, Wladyslaw of 57 years. She is survived by her son, Matthew and daughter, Veronica of Qualicum Beach, one step-son Jan (Sveinbjorg), 5 step-grandchildren, 11 great step-grandchildren and
4 great, great step-grandchildren living in Iceland, Germany and USA.
Olga will be remembered for her warmth, generosity and most wonderful laugh. She always looked for the good in people. Olga conducted life with beauty, dignity and grace. Ever a lady. She will be greatly missed.
The family thanks the staff at Stanford Place, especially those in
Coastview, and Dr. Henderson for their loving care and dedication to our mother.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date.