Anne was born in Sydney, N.S., the youngest child of Annie and Stephen Kowalchuk on January 10, 1944. Growing up in Whitney Pier, she remained a lifelong member of Holy Ghost Ukrainian Catholic Church, treasuring both her Ukrainian and Catholic heritage and diligently upholding the traditions passed down by her parents. Anne loved going to Church and found great solace in the power of prayer. She not only attended mass on Sundays but would frequently attend on a daily basis and said many Novenas for those who needed support. Anne had a deep faith in God and the power of prayer was something she worked to pass on to her children and family.
Anne’s family was everything to her, and it all began with her loving husband, Peter, of 56 years. The couple were inseparable, initially raising their three children, and later dedicating countless hours to their beloved grandchildren. They found joy in going for drives, always making time to indulge in Anne's favorite treat – ice cream. Remarkably, despite Anne's preference for travel by car and, in extreme circumstances, by train, the couple managed to explore most of North America. They made frequent trips to Walt Disney World with their grandchildren, ventured to New York City, Las Vegas, and cherished stops in Quebec City and Ottawa. True affection was evident in their daily lives as they held hands, sat next to each other, and routinely expressed their love for one another. Their shared love for each other was most evident in their enduring companionship, and it was clear that their love remained strong right up until the time of Anne's passing.
Known for her sociable nature, Anne delighted in hosting gatherings, singalongs, and frequently attending parties, the movie theatre, the Savoy, and various social activities, all of which she enjoyed with her loving husband at her side. Their warm and generous spirits were evident in the open doors of their home, where friends and family were always welcome. Anne and Peter were known for their hospitality, creating an environment where everyone felt like part of the family. Their genuine love for people always shone through.
A fervent shopper, she found true joy in the camaraderie of others. Anne loved to visit downtown Sydney in its heyday and was well known at Crowell’s and Yazers. Later, as times changed Anne would regularly visit the mall, stopping to talk to her many friends. Her children would sometimes joke that on a busy Saturday it could take her and Peter well over an hour to walk the length of the mall, given their frequent social stops.
Anne's passion for decorating her home, especially during holidays like Christmas, was shared with her husband, bringing joy to countless visitors each year. Anne’s love for Christmas extended beyond mere decoration; she cherished the spirit of the season and made it a magical time for all who entered their home. The twinkling lights, festive ornaments, and warmth radiating from their abode reflected the love and care Anne poured into creating a festive atmosphere for everyone.
Anne's childhood aspiration was to become a teacher, a dream she fulfilled when she graduated with degrees in Arts and Education from St.F.X. Over her teaching career, spanning from 1965 to her retirement in 2004, she left a lasting impact on countless students in schools such as Jamieson, Elmwood, Ashby, Colby, St. Joseph’s, East Bay, Ashby Complex, and served as the Principal of Dutch Brook Elementary.
Beyond her professional life and family commitments, Anne was an ardent community volunteer, dedicating her time to the Red Cross, serving on the VON Board of Directors, and participating as a steadfast canvasser for the United Way and Canadian Cancer Society.
Anne's infectious smile and cheerful demeanor were her trademarks. Ever supportive, she stood by her husband, children, and grandchildren in all their endeavors. To her grandchildren, she was affectionately known as Baba, a constant presence in hockey rinks, soccer fields, and baseball fields across the province, offering unwavering encouragement and cheers.
Anne is survived by her loving husband, Peter, her three children: sons, Peter (Amanda), Michael (Meghan) and daughter Leanne (Joseph Hutt), her loving grandchildren whom she adored: Jack, April, Will, Keara, Kayla, Michael, Matthew, Mark, step-grandchildren, Sienna and Ella Rose, brother, Maurice Kowal, brothers-in-law Tom, Arnie (Barb), Raymond (Rose), Doug (Margaret), and Murray; sisters-in-law Elaine, Lorna, and Ann, and many nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by her parents Annie (Zwarun) and Stephen Kowalchuk, brothers Michael (Mac) Kowal, Walter Kowalchuk, sister Mary Fleming and granddaughter Autumn Lea Mombourquette, as well as brothers-in-law Art Cole, Joe Mombourquette, and Bill MacDonald; sisters-in-law Florence Kowal, Jessie Kowal, Marilyn Cole, and Betty Mombourquette; and nephew Michael Kowal.
The family would like to express thanks to everyone who helped and supported Mom during her illness. A special thank you to City Homemakers Service Society and their dedicated staff who gave such great care, Dr. Stephen MacDougall who provided terrific medical care, the wonderful nurses from the VON, and caregiver Linda Mackinnon.
A special thank you to Lorna MacDonald and Anita Pierrynowski who went above and beyond to ensure that we were well supported and well fed.
Cremation has taken place under the care and direction of T.W. Curry Parkview Chapel, 755 George St., Sydney. Visitation will take place on Monday, December 11, 2023, from 2-4 pm and 7-9 pm. Funeral mass will take place at 10:00 am on Tuesday, December 12, 2023, at Holy Ghost Ukrainian Catholic Church with Father Roman Dusanowskyj officiating. There will be a reception held in the Ukrainian Hall following the service. Online condolences may be made to the family by visiting www.twcurry.com. Donations may be made to Holy Ghost Ukrainian Catholic Church in person or through e-transfer at [email protected]
Anne had two favorite sayings, a motto she tried to live her life by: “Live, Love and Laugh” and a sincere offering when saying goodbye or offering congratulations: “May all your wishes and dreams come true.” Anne’s family would like everyone to embrace her motto in her memory and offer that we hope everyone’s wishes and dreams come true.
For those unable to attend, the service will be livestreamed, which may be joined via the following link:
https://event.forgetmenotceremonies.com/ceremony?c=95629b36-a330-4515-b546-da6282268106
