Maria Olijnyk

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Maria Olijnyk at Peter Lougheed Hospital on May 6, 2025, with her family by her side.

She was born in Skole, Ukraine on October 1, 1927. Maria married Stefan Olijnyk on November 17, 1945, in Judenberg, Austria. They immigrated to Canada in 1949 to Lethbridge, AB and then relocated to Calgary, AB in 1955.

Maria was a faithful and respected member of The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Ukrainian Catholic Parish since arriving in Calgary, AB in 1955 and was also an active member of the Ukrainian Canadian Women’s League of Canada. Maria always enjoyed serving her church and community where she made many lifelong friends. Throughout her life Maria faced many adversities, but her faith and resilience kept her strong with a positive outlook.

She always loved it when her family and friends came over for a meal or to spend quality time. Family was Maria’s main priority, making sure there was always food ready to serve anyone who dropped in to visit with her. She was a true people person with a natural ability and warmth when meeting anyone. Even after the passing of her husband, Maria enjoyed hosting gatherings and being surrounded by her family and friends.

She loved cooking and gardening and had many other interests but most importantly her family, which she always made time for. She was kind and caring, a very generous person that will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Maria is survived by her daughter Sandy (Fred); son in law, George; grandchildren, Jeremy (Erin), Kimberley (Pierre); granddaughter in law Donna; great grandchildren, Matthew, Hailey, Amelia, Reya and Lenox; nieces and nephews here, as well as many relatives in Ukraine and abroad.

She was predeceased by both her parents; her three sisters; her three brothers; her husband, Stefan; infant son Emelian and her son Stephen; daughter, Luba Calow and grandson Shayne Wanka.

In the last few years Maria lived at St. Teresa Place, where she was well liked by both residents and staff.

Relatives and friends are invited to Prayers at The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Ukrainian Catholic Church (704 6 Street NE, Calgary, AB T2E 3Y7) on Thursday, May 15, 2025, at 7:00PM

Funeral Mass will be celebrated at The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Ukrainian Catholic Church on Friday, May 16, 2025, at 10:00AM

A Graveside service will follow Funeral Mass at Queens Park Cemetery.

If friends so desire, memorial tributes may be made to the charity of your choice.