Olga "Oli" Gorejko

October 16, 1946 – February 6, - 2015

“Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, whither thou goest.” (Ecclesiastes 9:10)

Oli could not overcome the complications of Stage IV breast cancer after struggling with this disease for almost three years. Our admiration and deepest gratitude to the nursing staff and doctors of the Oncology Clinic at Scarborough General Hospital for their kindness and consideration during this ordeal.

She lived a life without guile or pretense, and never wavered from her moral compass. As a teacher, guide, and advocate she searched for practical answers, and avoided finding fault. Her daughters, Natalie, Adriana, and Larrisa were her focus and delight. These three young women are contributors to society because their mother led through positive example.

As the true heart of the family, Oli was a faithful and constant help-mate to her husband Luby. A dutiful daughter-in-law, she earned the love and respect of both Stefan (2003) and Anna who regarded Oli as their own daughter. Her calm personality invited many to confide in her, and their trust was not misplaced. She took pleasure in simple things, and said that she had no need of a bucket-list.

Born in a refugee camp in Arolsen, Germany, Oli was a child of the Ukrainian diaspora of WW II. Her parents Ivan (John) and Anna immigrated to Buffalo, N.Y. searching for a better life. Predeceased by her brother William (2009), the successes of his children: Julia, and Nicholas, were a source of special pride for her. Oli leaves numerous cousins in both Ukraine and Germany.

Oli became spiritually independent, and practiced an ethic of reciprocity and her optimism about people never ceased. She was to the very end a decent human being. “Vichnaya Pamyat” (Forever in our Memory).

Cremation will follow a private family ceremony; Friends are invited to celebrate the life of this cherished soul on Sunday February 22nd, 2015 at the family home from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. In lieu of flowers, a donation to Scarborough General Hospital – Oncology Clinic may be made.