Joyce Mary Stratychuk

At 100 years young, Joyce Mary Stratychuk (née Darlington) passed away on September 22, 2025 at Oakwood Manor, Victoria, BC. Predeceased by her husband Anatole Stratychuk (2015) and her brother Robert Darlington (2021), Joyce is survived by her sister-in-law Wendy Darlington; her nephews Colin Darlington (Ellen) and Robert Darlington (Deborah); niece Jann Everard (Jim); great nephews Michael and Richard Darlington, and Gareth and Taylor Everard; and newly arrived great-great niece Emma Darlington.

Joyce was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, to Arthur (known as Steve) and Victoria Darlington. In her teens, she followed her father into the banking business, but later enrolled in the St. Boniface Hospital’s School of Nursing. After graduating, she worked in a hospital setting and in public health nursing. In 1956, she joined the Naval Reserve at HMCS Chippawa, was sent to both coasts for training and experience, and finally decided to join the permanent force – landing her in Halifax for the next six years. After unification of the Canadian Armed Forces, she was sent to RCAF Winnipeg and then to Rivers, Manitoba, where she met Tony (Anatole Stratychuk), an air force officer. They were married shortly after and were posted to CFB Longueuil, Quebec. Their final postings were in Ottawa, Joyce at the National Defence Medical Centre, and Tony at the language school due to his Ukrainian language skills. Together, they enjoyed international travel, especially cruising, and curling.

Joyce and Tony retired to Victoria where they joined the Orthodox Church of Tony’s upbringing and made good friends. Friends were always important to Joyce, and her biggest complaint was that she out-lived most of them. She also loved animals, including dogs and horses. For years, Joyce donated to the BC and Alberta Guide Dogs, and she was proud to have one of the dogs-in-training named after her.

Joyce’s family greatly appreciates the care and support she received from staff at Oakwood Manor (formerly Parkwood Court) for the past six years, and at her previous residence, Berwick House, as well as the many friendly visits she received in both places from members of her church community.