It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our mother, Julia Stashuk. She passed away peacefully at the Madison Care Centre in Coquitlam, just three weeks short of her 98th birthday. Julia was born in 1926 and spent her childhood in Winnipeg Manitoba. She met her husband John, and they were married in 1945. They moved to Vancouver shortly afterwards. Julia and John enjoyed a wonderful 48-year marriage. Julia is survived by her four sons: Greg (Val), Terry (Janet), Andy (Barb) and Mark (Kathryn). Julia loved and valued her family. “Baba” will be greatly missed by her nine grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren. She is predeceased by her husband John (1993) and her dearest brother, Ernie Collins (2003).
Julia was an accomplished pianist and enjoyed singing in the St. Mary's choir, where she performed as a soloist on occasion. She was very proud of her Ukrainian heritage and enjoyed several opportunities to travel abroad with the choir. Julia had a true passion for teaching and leading at St Mary's Ukrainian school. She had a life-long commitment to volunteer work in the Ukrainian community, including being a founding member of St. Mary’s Ukrainian Catholic Women’s League. In her 60’s, Mom contributed to the production of two Ukrainian cultural TV programs - Kontakt and Echo's of the Ukraine. Mom loved playing the piano, gardening, and travelling the world. She was known for her outgoing personality, warm smile and striking blue eyes.
The family would like to thank the staff at the Madison Care Centre (3 South) for the wonderful care Mom received these past four years. They affectionately nicknamed her “Jewel’s” as they found her positive spirit a treasure!
Funeral services will be held at St. Mary’s Ukrainian Catholic Church, located at 560 West 14th Avenue in Vancouver, on Monday, June 3rd at 11:00AM. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the Alzheimer Society of B.C. or your own favourite charity on her behalf.