Mary Duh

The death of Mary Theresa Duh (Orova) at the age of 85 occurred on April 14, 2020.  Surviving are her three children and their families: Lionel (Brenda) and his two children Mandy (Derek and son, Wyatt) and Nathan (Nadine and son, Westley); Darren (Toni) and their two children Adam (Pauline and children, Arya and Leo), and Ashley;  Adele Buettner and her daughter Amy; and Brenda’s two sons, Jeff (Michelle and daughter Lillian) and Josh.  Also left to grieve is her loving sister Julia who always had a special place in Mary’s heart, along with nieces, nephews, friends and neighbours.  Mary was born on February 9, 1935 to John and Irma Orova.  She was 13 months older than her sister, Julia, but as children and later in their adult life, they were as close as twins and that bond continued until her passing.  Mary was raised on a farm minutes east of Saskatoon where she spent 78 years of her life.  In 1952, she married Roland Duh and for 49 years they farmed side by side. They began as dairy farmers and then expanded to a mixed grain and beef operation. Both Mary and Roland shared a lifelong passion and respect for the land, livestock and life in the country.  Mary’s favourite place to be was outside helping on the farm or working in her yard and tending to her garden. Her second favourite place was in her kitchen cooking and baking for her family and friends. Visitors never left her house hungry and often had a care package in tow.  Her acts of kindness continued even when she moved into Saskatoon in 2013.  Her love and commitment to farming continued until her passing. She looked forward to the days when Darren would pick her up and take her to the farm to look at the crops or Lionel would pick her up to go check on the cattle. She was always a farm girl at heart.  However, she adjusted well to living in Saskatoon and was happy being part of the Heritage View condo community where she made many new friends who continually demonstrated thoughtfulness toward her. And, living only a block from Adele’s, they enjoyed many ‘city’ experiences together.  Very dear to Mary were her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Whether living near or far, thoughts of each of them remained close to her heart. She very much looked forward to their visits, phone calls, emails and pictures.  While Mary had a big heart open to all, in the last 18 months, her heart was failing which subsequently caused many health issues. Although she was a petite and very gentle woman, her fight to overcome her challenges was huge and filled with determination. She loved life, her family and community, and was not ready to leave, until the early morning of April 14.  Mary was preceded by her parents and husband.  Mary will be fondly missed by all.  Mary’s family wishes to send a heartfelt thank you to the staff at Sherbrooke Community Centre where Mary resided for the past 11 months. The staff’s sincerity, respect, love and support is genuinely appreciated. The staff at Sherbrooke made a difference in Mary’s last year and was a support to the family. Particularly during the challenging time of COVID-19, the care and attention given by the Sherbrook staff and respectful connection to the family, has not diminished, and for that, the family is grateful. In Lieu of flowers, please make donations Sherbrooke Foundation (401 Acadia Dr, Saskatoon, SK S7H 2E7).  A Private Family Service will be held. Arrangements in care of David J. Schurr - Mourning Glory Funeral Services (306) 978-5200 www.mourningglory.ca