Leatrice Chmeliuk

It is with deep sadness we announce that surrounded by her loved ones, Leatrice Chmeliuk (nee Comber) passed away on March 23, 2026, at the Lake of the Woods District Hospital, at the age of 88. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Harry of 50 years.

She is survived by her children: Allan Chmeliuk, Kathy Ratuski (Murray), Ken Chmeliuk, and Bill Chmeliuk (Denise); her grandchildren: Matthew Ratuski (Elysia), Sheldon Ratuski (Ashley), Brittany, Luke, Kate, and John Chmeliuk; and her great-grandchildren: Rae-ah, Indessa, Hunter, Cruz, Jett, and Knox Ratuski. Additionally, she is survived by her sister, Eunice Bourcier, her brother, Patrick Comber (Glynda) and many nieces and nephews.

Leatrice was predeceased by her parents, Gordon Comber and Elizabeth Amos (nee Horne), her stepfather Doug Amos, Mother and Father In-Law Katerina and John Chmeliuk, her sister Glynda Lax, her brother Ralph Conner, her brothers-in-law Alexander Derewianko, Wayne Lax and Louis Bourcier, her sisters-in-law Mary Derewianko, Stella Hillis, and her Grandson, James Chmeliuk.

She was born in Kenora, and lived her entire life there. She cherished her upbringing in Kenora, having grown up with limited resources during the 1930s and 1940s, which instilled in her a strong work ethic and determination while always valuing the journey. She met her future husband, Harry at the Salisbury house where she was working at the time. They married in 1957, marking the beginning of 50 years filled with joy alongside family and friends, always ensuring that company was provided with Kubasa, cheese and crackers, accompanied by a drink of choice. Mom loved her family dearly and was so proud to be a Grandma and Great Grandma. When she spoke of them she was always beaming, they meant the world to her.

She was a lifetime member of the Kenora Legion Branch 12, the Legion Ladies Auxiliary and the Canadian Daughters League. She was deeply dedicated to volunteering at various venues, including the Legion, Bingos, Pinecrest Home for the Aged, and other worthy causes. She was always happy to help out when called upon. She was a member of the St. Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic Church and drew great strength from her faith. She worked in customer service at Dominion Grocer and Nibblers Nook for many years. Mom was fun loving and enjoyed many years of playing darts at the Legion and curling with the ladies at the Keewatin Curling Club.

We would like to thank the Doctors and nurses at the LWDH who cared for her during her hospital stay.

At a later date a family graveside memorial service for Mom will be held at the St. Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made to a charity of your choice in remembrance of Leatrice.

Rest in peace Beloved Mom, Grandma and Great Grandma

You will be missed.

“Till we meet again”

VICHNAYA PAMYAT