It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Elizabeth Sterzuk at the age of 86 years.
Liz, Libby, Mom, Grandma will be deeply missed and forever in the hearts of those she held dear. She is survived by her devoted husband of 67 years John, her children Marilyn (Steven), Ken (Astrid), Kevin, and beloved grandchildren Michael, Matthew, Liam, and Lily.
Elizabeth was born on May 20th, 1937 in Hillsburg, north of Roblin, Manitoba to Fred and Lena Fedeniuk. She grew up in a hardworking farm family, which included younger sisters Jane, Ann, Vernice and since passed brother Roy. Her fondest childhood memories were of those early days, marked by fun and carefree moments, along with expected chores and responsibilities. At 10 years old, she lost her father to sudden illness, and the family reluctantly moved from the farm to the city to start a new life.
The years that followed were marked by perseverance and sacrifice. Elizabeth helped support the family through her work as a hairdresser. She cooked, baked, sewed, and mastered crafts that included knitting, crocheting, embroidery and needlepoint. At 17 years of age, she met the love of her life at a country barn dance. John swept her off her feet, and dancing to local Ukrainian polka bands was how they spent many weekends throughout their life together.
They married in 1956. As their children arrived, Elizabeth created a home that welcomed friends and family, nieces and nephews, neighbors and pets. The house was often a gathering place for celebrations, holidays and events, every corner of every room jammed with guests and the table loaded with traditional meals and special treats. Her gardens burst with fresh vegetables, fruit and flowers that she tended to and preserved with great care.
Over the years, we learned through her example. She was a strong and resilient woman who taught her family that obstacles were to be overcome. That standing up for one’s beliefs and convictions was fundamental to living an authentic life. She fought her physical health challenges tooth and nail and defied the odds against her.
In the end, she declared that the fight was over, and she was ready to leave the bounds of this earthly life. We are blessed to have shared our lives with her. She was a force of nature, yet her love for us was unconditional and bigger than the universe itself.
The family wishes to thank Dr. Hani El Gabalawy, Dr. Carrie Lafournaise, Dr. George and the nurses and staff at Grace Hospital for their exceptional and compassionate care. We are forever grateful for your kindness and humanity.
Should you choose, donations can please be made to the Arthritis Society Foundation.