Mary Phelan

We wish to announce the peaceful passing of Mary Phelan (nee Semeniw) April 16, 2020 at the Saskatoon Convalescent Home in the arms of her husband Francis. They were married for 62 years. Mary was predeceased by her parents John and Helen Semeniw, and cousin Dmytro Semeniw. Mary is survived by husband Francis, daughter Donna (Lorne) Mulder, son Dennis Phelan & partner Kathy Tillman, daughter Colleen (John) Woodley, daughter Sonja (Lyndon) Moysuik, eight grandchildren, and nine great grandchildren. Mary was born in a farm home on March 25, 1930 south of Vonda, SK. She attended St. Denis rural school. Mary spent 6 years of her teenage and young adult life at the Saskatoon Sanitorium where she survived tuberculosis. She later attended the Saskatoon Business College. Francis and Mary were married September 28, 1957 and lived in Saskatoon where Francis worked as an industrial mechanic. In 1962 when Mary’s parents retired from farming Francis and Mary moved to their farm, built a new house, and began a career in farming. Mary embraced farm life. She was proud of her Ukrainian heritage. She was an accomplished cook. She mastered many Ukrainian dishes as well as traditional cooking. She loved trying new recipes as well. Mary gardened well into her 80’s and was an avid bird watcher. A visit with her always included a description of what new birds were around the yard. Mary’s greatest joy was her family. We all cherish our memories of Ukrainian Christmases, Good Friday hot cross buns, special holiday meals and other traditions which she instilled in us and that we continue celebrating to this day. Mary was very involved in community life including St Anthony’s Catholic Church. She retained a lifelong friendship with many neighbors and loved spending time at the lake fishing and socializing with friends. During the last 4 years Mom struggled with Alzheimer’s. With Dad’s love and care Mom was able to remain at home until December 23, 2019 when she was admitted to the Saskatoon Convalescent Home. Once there she received the best professional care possible. In lieu of flowers please send donations to the Saskatoon Convalescent Home Foundation, 101 - 31st Street West, Saskatoon S7L 0P6. A Family Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, September 25, 2020. For those unable to attend live-streaming will be available at:  https://youtu.be/45vnY6Tx_LU . The Interment will be held at St. Helen’s Anglican Cemetery, 1 mile from the Phelan farm. Arrangements in care of Travis Minor - Mourning Glory Funeral Services (306) 978-5200.