Margaret was born on July 3, 1933 in Ileva Slovakia. Her Janega family immigrated to Nova Scotia in 1937 when she was four years old. Father Matus, mother Josephine, and brothers Marten, Matt, John and Peter (all previously deceased) made their home in Whitney Pier, Cape Breton. Margaret loved to tell stories of life in the Pier and became known for her paintings depicting scenes of everyday life.
Following her graduation as a Laboratory Technologist from St. Martha’s Hospital in Antigonish, Margaret returned to Sydney to be employed at St. Rita’s Hospital. Shortly thereafter, she met the love of her life, Marijan, and were married a year later in 1954.
Faith and family were everything to Margaret. She had a deep dedication to her Catholic faith. She was an active member of Our Lady of Fatima Parish and the CWL in Sydney River. Margaret had a zest for life and maintained a close connection to her immediate and extended family. Margaret loved to keep her hands busy. In her spare time, Margaret was an avid gardener, artist, crafter and community volunteer.
Mom had a great sense of humour, quick wit and often provided advice to her family and friends, like it or not. She was a force to be reckoned with and our beloved family matriarch.
Margaret was predeceased by her beloved husband Marijan and son Andy (Dawn). She is survived by her children Peter (Dorothy), Philip (Barbara) and Rose (Pierre), eleven grandchildren, five great grandchildren, sister-in-law Darlene Janega (Peter), a number of cherished nieces and nephews.
We would like to thank the staff at the Berkeley and QEII Hospital’s Abbie J Lane for their loving care and support during Mom’s final years and days.
Visitation to be held at TW Curry Parkview, 755 George St., Sydney NS on Monday, July 17 at 2-4 & 7-9pm. Funeral Mass to be held July 18 at Our Lady of Fatima, Sydney River, 11:00 am. Graveside service to follow at Resurrection Cemetery, Sydney Forks. Memories and condolences can be shared with the family by visiting www.twcurry.com.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be directed to Cape Breton Loaves and Fishes or Chalice.
