Mary Prokopchuk

Mom was predeceased by her father and mother (John and Polly Barabonoff), Ross Prokopchuk, and grandson (Neil Waddell).

Mom will be lovingly remembered by her two daughters and their families. Gale Lemon and granddaughter Cassandra (Brendan). Sandra (Brian) Waddell and granddaughter Kelly. Mom also leaves behind her sister Diana (Keith) Hainstock and her nieces Stacey, Lorena, April, and Jennifer.

Mom was born in White Beech, Saskatchewan and was raised on the family farm. With her sister Diana by her side, they tended to the family chores and enjoyed the offerings of farm life.

On October 7th, 1960, mom and dad married, settled in Winnipeg, and raised their two daughters. In 1972, while caring for two girls, mom returned to school at the Grace Hospital to pursue a nursing degree. With hard work and dedication, she graduated in 1974 with academic distinction. While working full time, mom again returned to school taking night classes at the University of Winnipeg. She had this unending quest for knowledge and because of this, was able to achieve her goal. In 1982, mom graduated from the University with a B.A. in Sociology. She was SO SO SMART!

Mom worked for several years in a head nurse capacity caring for the elderly and ensuring the ward ran smoothly. However, with more to do and see, mom took on a further career challenge which lead her to Carmel, California. There she resided until 2011, working at Salina’s Children’s Hospital caring for patients on a neonatal unit. Once retired, mom returned to Winnipeg to be closer to family.

Mom’s greatest passion in life was travel. A strong sense of adventure, coupled with her independence, allowed her to explore many parts of the world. Spain, Italy, France, England, Japan, South America, India, and South Africa were a few places she was blessed to see. Walking the Carmel Beach, art classes, tango dancing, and golf contributed greatly to mom’s happiness. Her greatest joy however, came from her shared experiences with her grandchildren. Having Neil living with her in Winnipeg, travelling to baseball tournaments with Cassie, and auditing University classes with Kelly are but a few. They shared many happy, silly times together that will be fondly remembered and forever cherished.

Until we see you again, you will be forever in our hearts.

Thank you to the Golden Door Family for taking Loving Care of Mom.