Mary Didur

Born Mary Herchak on the family farm in Wakaw, Saskatchewan, she was one of eight children. She left the farm at the tender age of18 to pursue her education at the Marvel Hair Dressing School in Saskatoon. After graduation, she began her career at the local LaRue Beauty Salon. Around this time, she was swept off her feet by a dashing older man, John Didur, and they soon married in 1946. In 1947, John and Mary welcomed their first son, Allan, into their family, and then six years later, his brother, David.

John and Mary bought their first house at 706 Avenue N South and 6 years later moved to the east side to 214 3rd Street East. During this time, Mary started her own salon, “La Chez Marie”, and began the life of an entrepreneur. She eventually sold the salon to follow her true calling as an educator, teaching at her alma mater, the Marvel Hair Dressing School, for more than two decades. It was also at this time that they bought a new house at 2501 York Avenue where they lived for many years.

John and Mary had the opportunity to travel throughout continental USA and Hawaii as well as a couple sojourns to Europe. The last European trip had cold war implications. They visited some of John’s relatives in the then Soviet Ukraine, without the authorities' permission, and were subsequently expelled, never to return.

As they aged, John and Mary made the move to condo living at Chalet Gardens where they resided together for years. John passed away in 2003 and Mary remained there for another 15 years until she moved to the Ilarion Residence.

Mary was always a gracious, friendly person. She made many lifelong friends along the way and always had a kind word for all. There was always room for one more at her dinner table.

Her health began to deteriorate over the past couple of years and sadly she passed away Wednesday May 22, 2024. Her passing was a blessing as she could join her beloved Johnny once again. May 21st was John’s birthday, and we can certainly imagine them celebrating together.

A Funeral Service for Mary will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, May 31, 2024 at Acadia McKague’s Funeral Centre (915 Acadia Drive, Saskatoon).

Arrangements entrusted to Thea Katchmar.