Susan Elizabeth “Sue” Bilinski (née Braine), age 73, passed away unexpectedly on July 15, 2025, in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. Her sudden departure has left her family, friends, and all who knew her reeling and in disbelief.
Born on October 21, 1951, in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Sue was the daughter of A. Wentworth Braine and Ellen Batey. She was also loved by her stepmother, Edith Braine. In 1971, Sue married Melvin Bilinski and they moved north to The Pas, Manitoba, where they built a life and raised their family. Sue made many meaningful and long-lasting friendships in The Pas and in Cranberry Portage, where they had a family cabin and spent weekends and summers there.
A major part of Sue’s career was working at Tolko/Repap/Manfor. She later found great joy in helping others learn. Her time at Scott Bateman Middle School was a highlight, and she had several fond memories of her time there and of some of the students.
After retiring and then later relocating to Saskatoon, Sue continued to live life fully. She cherished spending time with friends — both old and new — and found immense joy in being close to her grandchildren. Watching them grow brought her profound happiness.
Sue enjoyed traveling, whether it was taking a flight to another country, a bus trip touring many landmarks, heading out on a fishing or camping trip, or participating in a Bombadier Rally, she was always ready for the next experience. Her zest for life was infectious, and she approached every outing with excitement.
She will be deeply missed by her son Michael Bilinski; daughter Nicole (Ryan) Hubbard; grandchildren Hunter Hubbard and Alyssa Hubbard; brother Robert Braine; brother-in-law Mervin Bilinski; step-siblings Doug (Lori) Shand, Lorraine (Ferd) Kopeschny; as well as many nieces and nephews who held her dear. Sue also leaves behind countless friends whose lives were brightened by her kindness and generosity.
Sue was predeceased by her husband Melvin Bilinski, her parents A. Wentworth Braine and Ellen Batey; stepmother Edith Braine; father-in-law Joseph Bilinski; mother-in-law Janice Bilinski; step-brother Richard Shand and his wife Louise; step-sisters Lana Shand; Kathleen LeSann and her husband Armand; and Corrine Von Ferber and her husband Dennis.
Those who knew Sue will remember her radiant smile that welcomed everyone she met. Her vibrant spirit touched many lives, leaving behind memories filled with laughter, love, and compassion.
May Sue’s memory bring comfort to those who knew her and continue to inspire kindness in the world she so warmly embraced. A Service will be held on August 21, 2025, at 2:00 PM at Acadia McKague's Funeral Chapel, 915 Acadia Drive, Saskatoon, SK. There will be a reception to follow.
