Doris Chonstke

It is with deep sadness but with so many joyful memories that the family announces the peaceful passing of Doris at Holy Family Nursing Home in Winnipeg Manitoba. 

Doris (Mother, Baba and Baba G) is survived by her daughter Eleanor (Barry) Boyce of Texas, son Michael, grandsons Ryan (Alycia) and Adam Boyce, Andrew (Suzanne), Matthew and Jordan Moncek, great grandchildren James and Charlotte Boyce, Abigail, Julianna and Calvin Moncek , plus numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her husband Frank and working partner of 65 years, by her daughter Sharon Moncek, and most recently by her youngest sister Marie Graboweski, mother Rose (nee Marchuk), father Michael, brother Peter, sister Helen Rigey, and step sister VIcky Hrynick.   

When thinking of Doris, the words loving, caring, giving, faithful, boundless energy and masterful cook come to mind. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, employer and friend. Doris grew up on a farm near Komarno, Manitoba and at only 14 years of age, she moved to Winnipeg to begin her work life. Doris worked in varied disciplines before moving to Ontario where she met Frank (whom she married 3 years later).  Their ambitious approach to life led to several business ventures including a cafeteria in MacDonald Brothers Aircraft, a restaurant in the Grain Exchange, a hotel business in Hamiota, followed by a second in Altona, and at the age of 68 opened Doris' Perogies. This became a flourishing business so much so that she made the news in the Winnipeg Free Press. 

The Ukrainian Catholic church of St. Andrews is where Doris practiced her faith not only as a member for 45 years but also as the President of the Ladies league for 12 years.  Doris so graciously and efficiently guided many through the processes of varied church events including; Spring Teas, Church Suppers, meetings and fund raisers, after church coffees, Funerals, Wedding Showers, Birthdays and Anniversaries to name a few.  These events were catered by the Ladies League and the food prepared was renowned. 

All these activities are plenty for most but there was so much more going on in her life. Being a skilled seamstress Doris made clothing and costumes for family and friends including dresses for entire wedding parties.  Doris was an avid flower and produce gardener - she typically had 3 gardens in various locations. The garden produce required cooking, canning, preserving and freezing of her delicious creations,  Doris loved to travel and she visited many places in the world but her favorite retreat was the family cottage at Eleanor Lake.  For over 60 years family and friends gathered to share in making the most unforgettable meals and memories at this cottage. During quiet times either at the lake or home, Doris enjoyed going for long walks, bicycle rides, bowling, reading, knitting, crocheting, playing scrabble, baking breads, making wedding cakes and Korovais (over 60 of these beautifully decorated Wedding and Anniversary breads were made for family and friends through the years). 

Funeral Divine Liturgy will be held at Ukrainian Catholic Church of St. Andrews, 160 Euclid Avenue on Saturday, March 29, 2025 at 10:00 AM where Fr. Bohdan Lukie C.Ss.R. will be officiating. Family friend Deacon Gordon Mendres will assist as Cantor.  Pallbearers will be Ryan Boyce, Adam Boyce, Gary Graboweski, Brian Hrynick, David Kishka and Steven Kishka.  Following the funeral there will be a memorial lunch in the St. Andrews church basement. A private family burial will take place later in the afternoon at Pleasant Home Cemetery 

We would like to thank the Holy Family Nursing Home Staff for their kindness and professional care.  Most honorable mention is to her loving care givers, Maryna Mikawoz for the last 4 years and to Anastasiya Binkevich for 1 year.  These ladies brought love and light not only to Doris but to her family as well through so many face time chats.  No words can express the gratitude the family has for them.  We would like to thank the Graboweski family, especially Deb Pfrimmer and Donna Bell, for all that they have done for their Auntie Doris and the family through these years of care.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Holy Family Nursing Home or St. Andrews church.    

May Doris now rest in eternal peace.

CHRYSTOS VOSKRES KORBAN FUNERAL CHAPEL

204-956-2193