Helen (Rudak) Parij

Helen Parij (Rudak)

On Thursday, March 12th, 2020, Helen passed peacefully into the arms of the Lord at age 93.

Helen is survived by her loving children, Walter and Julia (Ken); as well as her grandchildren, Talia (Tom), Jordan (Alexis); and three great grandchildren, Callie, Nicholas and Noelle.

Mom was predeceased by her husband, Marian Parij, in 2012.

Mom was born on June 30th, 1926, in Belarus.  She and Dad met and married in Austria after the war and came to Canada in 1947 to build a new life for themselves.

Mom was employed as a skilled seamstress for most of her working life and often would sew beautiful dresses for her daughter.

Mom loved to pick blueberries and mushrooms in the forest - the location always a secret - as if we would go there and pick everything.  Or worse yet...disclose the location to someone! 

Mom loved her garden and spent many hours growing and nurturing her beautiful flowers around her home.  She would also enjoy watching and listening to the birds singing outside her window.

Mom was feisty, strong and stubborn.  She spoke 4 languages.  She always voiced her opinion and loved a good debate.  She was an avid reader of books and loved newspapers , often devouring them over and over.  Mom loved to sing and dance but seldom did either.  Mom rarely bought anything for herself, but she loved a good bargain.  She would buy new clothes on sale but never wear them because she wanted to keep them new. 

Mom worked hard, lived modestly, spent very little on herself but was very generous with others, especially her family.  We never left without food for home and money in our pockets!

Mom loved and was especially proud of her grandchildren and later her three great grandchildren.

The family would like to thank the amazing staff at Holy Family Home where Mom spent her final 2 years.  First, on the St Mary's unit and then the St Luke's unit.  You were all her angels and she adored you.  Mom was cared for in the most loving and compassionate way.  We her family are so grateful and thankful for the way you loved our mother.

Thanks also to Dr. Terry Babick and Dr. Andrea Babick.  The gentle care and concern you showed for our mother will always be appreciated and remembered.

A private service will be held.
Officiant for the service will be Fr. Bohdan Lukie CSsR.

If you so wish, please consider making a donation to Holy Family Home c/o the Lubov Foundation.

Mama, may you rest in peace...you have earned it.

Vichnaya Pamyat

Korban Funeral Chapel

(204) 956-2193

www.korbanchapel.com