Vera Anna Nokony

NOKONY, Vera Anna, our beautiful and brave mother, grandmother and great-grandmother died April 13, 2016 in Vancouver, age 88. A daughter of Saskatchewan, she was strong, resourceful, hardworking, practical and creative. She believed in community, cooperation, public education and in sharing traditions. Her long teaching career (French, art, music) included significant contributions to choral instruction and the promotion of music festivals. Like many teachers, she never lost interest in her students and was always happy to hear of them and from them. She served the profession in several Saskatchewan Teachers Federation roles, at the local and district levels. Along with participating in other cultural and community organizations in Kerrobert and Saskatoon, she was, for eight years, President of the Board of Directors of the Ukrainian Museum of Canada. Vera was a lifelong learner. After husband Ivan’s death, she cared for his mother and her own, and returned to formal studies. In addition to her BA and MA (U of S), she took a variety of courses, read widely, followed current events (and curling), travelled when she could. She prized independence and personal organization. In spite of many personal setbacks, faced with dignity and determination, Vera recognized and cherished the blessings in her life, especially family and friends. Wherever she lived, there was music, art, good food, common sense and love. And competitive Scrabble (she played in English and French). After moving to BC, she enjoyed long phone conversations with friends far and near, Music in the Morning concerts, writing, walks, shared meals. She was a beloved and devoted Baba to her younger generations (and their friends), who benefitted from regular cultural “workshops” - making brined pickles and other preserves, varenyky, holubtsi, kolach, pysanky, a korovai for a grand-daughter’s wedding. We are grateful to Drs Turgeon, Lalani, Wallace, and the staffs of the ACE and STAT wards of Vancouver General Hospital and at her last residence, Cavell Gardens, and for all of the kindness shown to the family since her passing. Predeceased by her husband Ivan, Vera is survived by her brother Miro and her children Alicia and Denis and their families. Please remember and celebrate her in your own way, perhaps with music or a donation to a charity of your choice. Messages can be sent via dignitymemorial.ca and will be shared at a private commemorative event this summer.

Arrangements under the direction of First Memorial Funeral Services, Vancouver, BC.