MARY LOUISE PAYONK

(nee LIPISCHAK)
Peacefully on May 21st, 2013 in Medicine Hat, AB, at the age of 81 years and surrounded by her family, an angel came for Mary to journey to the heavens to be with her parents, John and Nellie Alice Lipischak; her brothers, Frank, Stanley and Vincent; and her sisters, Elizabeth (McDiarmid) and Frances (McMurray).
Mary leaves behind her beloved husband, Joe, of 61 years of marriage; and to cherish her memory, two daughters, Debbie and husband Mario Archambault of Kingston, ON, Wendy and husband Paul Klassen of Jenner, AB; three precious grandchildren, Jake (Robyn), Katie and James; and a beautiful great grandson, Dallas Robert.
Mary will be missed by her four sisters; Bernice House of StoneWall, MB, Rose (Germain) Jeanson of Winnipeg, MB, Pat (Tony) Sitarz of Oakbank, MB, Linda (John) Yamniuk of Calgary, AB; and also many nieces and nephews.
Mary was born at Calorwie, MB, the eldest of ten children. In Mary’s early years she enjoyed continually helping her parents in any way she could while being raised on their farm.
Mary met the love of her life, Joe, and married in 1951. They resided in Winnipeg for the first few years, moved to Narol, St. Clements where they raised their two daughters. Just before retirement they moved back to Winnipeg and in their retirement years made a move to Medicine Hat.
Over the years Mary had a variety of employers that she worked for; Moores Restaurant, Ludwick Catering, Paddlewheel River Boats, Shore Glass Building Supplies and Carters Auction.
Mary sparkled when she was around babies and children. When living at Narol, Mary gave her time and commitment being Leader and Head Leader of the Narol 4-H Club. Mary was an active member in her communities being involved in many events with helping and organizing throughout her years. During retirement Mary volunteered in a Children’s Reading Program.
Mary had a passion for music, art and cheering for the Blue Jays. When her grandchildren were younger they loved to have Grandma Mary play her guitar and pretend they were in the Grandma Mary Band. Mary was thrilled to be part of the Good Neighbourhood Band in her golden years.
When it came to planting flowers Mary had a special green thumb and the flowers seem to thrive for her and make her yard that much more beautiful.
Special joy came to Mary when taking trips to be with her daughters and grandchildren. Her family was most important to Mary.
A Memorial Service will be held at GILBART’S FUNERAL HOME, 309 Eveline Street, Selkirk, Manitoba on Wednesday, May 29th, 2013 at 11:00 a.m. with Rob Laycock officiating. Interment will take place in the Polish National Cemetery at Libau after 4:00 p.m.
Condolences may be sent through www.saamis.com or www.gonebutnotforgotten.ca or to condolences@saamis.com subject heading Mary Payonk. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the charity of one’s choice.
The family would like to extend a special thank you to Masterpiece River Ridge. Their exceptional care and support especially the last few weeks for Mary and the family was very much appreciated. A special mention and thank you to Mary’s doctor, Dr. John Pasternak for his wonderful care and concerns for Mary these last few years.
Mom your smiling face, the warm memories, will always be in our hearts.
Funeral arrangements are entrusted to SAAMIS MEMORIAL FUNERAL CHAPEL AND CREMATORIUM, “The Chapel in the Park”, locally owned and directed. Should you wish any additional information, please telephone (403)528-2599