It is with regret and sorrow that the family announces the passing of Olga Helen (Migel) Stefanyk.
Helen passed away peacefully on April 23, 2024 at the age of 94, with family by her side.
Helen was predeceased by; Donald, her loving husband of 50 years, her parents Meri and Peter Migel, sister Evelyn, nieces Lydia and Sharon, cousin Rosie and her husband Johnny.
She is survived by; her adored Himalayan cat Countess, her nieces and nephews Jim (Sherrie), Dianne, Pamela (Rod) and their daughters McKenzie and Kendal, Kris, Les (Amelia), Carla and sons Kevin and Ryan, Paul (Pat) and family, Michele, Glen (Jacquie) and sons Nick and Alex, Bill Harry (Stacy) and children Kaitlyn and William, Dawn Pettit and son Chad, and many good friends.
Born in Matlock Manitoba, Helen was raised into the family business where she sharpened her business and life skills at a young age. As a young adult she moved to Winnipeg to attend classes. Helen worked for the Department of Vital Statistics for many years before she ventured into a career in sales. As the Western Canadian Sales rep for Elizabeth Arden cosmetics, Helen became a very accomplished makeup artist and was once flown to the Bahamas to do Jackie O’s make up.
It was during this time frame that Helen met the love of her life, Don (Snufie) Stefanyk. After a long courtship they tied the knot in 1970 while on vacation in Mexico. Helen was a very devoted wife, the couple went on to build and develop many successful business ventures. Helen was a very strong business partner and Don could not have done it without her by his side. Helen and Don were world travelers and spent many months every year exploring what the world had to offer. She has stood next to Royalty and met dignitaries worldwide.
She loved her cottage at Lake of the Woods, and all those lifelong friendships. It meant so much to her. Helen was the family matriarch and her door was always open day or night no matter what time it was to any of us that just needed to talk or get her advice. Her beautiful home was always a soft-landing spot for us to seek out comfort. She made us feel like her home was our home.
We love you and will miss you dearly. Thank you for your guidance, love, kindness (and the occasional scolding). We are all better people because you touched our lives.
A special thank you to Helen’s dear friend Karen, who took such good care of Helen these last few months, and to the team of Doctors, Nurses and Aides on the 4th floor at the Victoria hospital, for treating Helen with such compassion.
Cremation has taken place, and a private family service will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made in Helen’s memory to the Humane Society, CancerCare or to the charity of your choice.
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