Stefania Hillis

Stefania (Stella) Hillis December 25, 1932 – March 9, 2023 It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Stefania (Stella) Hillis, on March 9, 2023, with her son by her side, Stella passed away peacefully at the Lake of the Woods District Hospital, at the age of 90. She is survived by and will be greatly missed by her son Dan. Stella was predeceased by her parents John and Katerina Chmeliuk, her son Christopher, her brother Harry Chmeliuk and her sister Mary (Alex) Derewianko. She will be fondly remembered by her surviving, in-laws, nieces, nephews and friends. Stella was born in Kenora on December 25, 1932. She was employed at the Lake of the Woods Clinic, but when Christopher was born she left the workforce in order to raise her family. Once her children were older, Stella re-entered the workforce, retiring from Sears in 1992. Stella spoke fondly of the many friendships that she made at the clinic and at Sears. She was a member of the St. Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic Church. For over four decades Stella enjoyed Thursday night coffee with her sister Mary and great friends Bill and Mary Zabloski. She was happiest at home and loved spending time with her pet dogs. Stella was a fantastic knitter, avid gardener, and an amazing cook; Sunday family meals were not to be missed. Traditional Ukrainian food was her specialty; her pierogis, cabbage rolls and borscht were truly amazing. I would like to thank the doctors and nurses on the 2nd Floor of the Lake of the Woods District Hospital for the care and compassion that they showed my mother during her final weeks. I would also like to thank Doctor Murray Workman for the exceptional care that he provided to my mother over the years. Cremation has taken place and there will be a graveside service at the St. Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic Parrish Cemetery at a later date. Donations to the Lake of the Woods District Hospital Foundation or A Dog’s Life Fostering Network Kenora would be appreciated as expressions of sympathy. Do Pobachennia Vichnaya Pamyat Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.brownfuneralhomekenora.com for the Hillis family.