Alice Stefanchuk

Alice Stefanchuk (nee Cherwaty)

 Alice died peacefully on July 6, 2021 at the age of 86 years.

 Alice was born December 21, 1934 to John and Mary Cherwaty and was raised on the family farm in Stuartburn, along with sister Helen and brother Johnny. 

Her passion for learning started when she was a child in a one-room school, and then to Tolstoi where she attended high school. After attending Normal School, she began her teaching career and, after her children had started school, achieved her Bachelor of Education from the University of Winnipeg. She was a dedicated teacher for 29 years.

 In 1956, she married Moe and together they raised four children, moving from Steinbach to Gillam, then finally settling in Lockport. 

 Alice was a bright, bold presence who loved telling a good joke. She would often pause during a story, her eyes welled up with tears, filling the room with her unmistakable and joyous laugh.

 She loved cooking, fishing, card games and most especially Scrabble. Friends and family would be treated to her signature dishes like perogies, pickled beets, cakes and borscht to name just a few. Everyone was welcome at Alice and Moe’s house and almost no one left without at least one jar of raspberry or strawberry jam.

 She loved long boat rides up the Winnipeg River from the seasonal at Trail End Camp. Memories made there over many years will be especially treasured by friends and family. Baba was always up for an adventure. Like the time she tried her first jet ski ride and tipped herself, jet ski and the driver completely upside down while attempting to board.

At the centre of her heart was her family. The celebrations and milestones shared with her children and particularly her six granddaughters were her truest joy. Baba and Gigi were a central influence on their granddaughters during childhood and adulthood. For Alice, welcoming great grandchildren was yet another wonderful adventure.

Alice was predeceased by her parents, John and Mary Cherwaty, husband Moe, sister Helen, brother Johnny, son Brent and granddaughter Halee. She leaves to mourn her sons Don (Cara) and Ken (Lora), daughter Donna, granddaughters Kerri (Kyle), Marly (Stefan), Jodi (Nick), Victoria (Rick) and Brenlee as well as great grandchildren Alicia and Liam.

The family would like to thank the Selkirk General and Teulon Hospital staff for all their kind attention during Alice’s stay.

 A celebration of life for Alice and Moe will be held at a future date with close family and friends.

Condolences may be left on her tribute wall at www.gilbartfuneralhome.com

Gilbart Funeral Home, Selkirk in care of arrangements.

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