Barbara Karatchuk

BARBARA KARATCHUK (nee Kirkness)

It is with deep heartache that we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved mom, Grannie, Coo-coom (Kookum), and auntie, Barbara Karatchuk, on Thursday, July 31, 2025, at Selkirk Tudor House, at the age of 97.

She leaves to mourn her passing and cherish her memory her sons Larry (Sharon), Brian, and Dennis; her grandchildren Glenn (Amy), Amanda (Justin), Patrick, Kelly (Jess), Taryn (Garett), and Keenon; and her nine precious great-grandchildren: Braeden, Madison, Hailey, Jadyn, Owen, Navee, Axel, Tyson, and Lawson. She is also survived by numerous cherished nieces, nephews, and friends.

Mom is reunited with her loving husband of 73 years, Bill (William) Karatchuk, who passed on December 10, 2024. She was predeceased by her parents Myles and Sarah (nee Cochrane), her sisters Lorna (Jack) Zacharias and Verna (Lawson) Spence; sisters Alice and Agnes, and her brothers Lawson and Miles, who passed in infancy. She also joins her in-laws William (Wasyl) and Anna Karatchuk; brothers-in-law John (Mary) and Mike (Julie); sisters-in-law Nettie (Steve) Zabogruski and Mary (John) Obirek; and many beloved extended family members and friends.

Mom was born in Fisher River, MB, on September 25, 1927, the second oldest of seven children to Miles and Sarah. After meeting Dad, they spent many fishing seasons together at Georges Island, Stevenson Island, and Point Island (also known as Karatchuk Island), where mom cooked for the fishermen. Mom and dad were married on December 12, 1951. 

In 1957, they purchased a farm in Washow Bay, and then in 1966 the family moved to Selkirk. On January 24, 1967, mom began working as a cook at the Selkirk Mental Hospital. She eventually became head cook and worked there until her retirement on September 13, 1989.

Mom and dad enjoyed many years camping and making memories with their children and grandchildren at Barney’s Point, Hnausa, and Beaver Creek. In 1989, they purchased a cabin at Beaver Creek where they made many wonderful memories with family and friends.

Mom was an incredible cook and baker. Dad often said that nothing compared to her cooking. Whether at home or the cabin, she never kept idle hands—and you’d find her cooking, baking, or canning something for whoever might drop in for coffee and a visit.

She was also an avid knitter and crocheter, lovingly creating sweaters, blankets, and doll clothes that will be cherished for years to come.

Mom was a natural planner. Over the years, she organized countless milestone celebrations for her and dad, from big anniversaries and birthday gatherings to simple family dinners. She also hosted many baby and bridal showers for loved ones, taking care of every detail—from labeled place settings to thoughtful touches. She will be fondly remembered by her family each time her china, bread basket, or punch bowl are used.

In their later years, Mom and Dad experienced more moves than in their entire married life. In 2013, they moved to House of Hope in Arborg before returning to Selkirk. In 2018, they once again embraced their Riverton roots, moving to the Icelandic River Lodge. As mom’s health declined, they returned to Arborg—she entered the PCH, while dad stayed in assisted living. In late 2023, she moved to Tudor House and in early 2024, dad moved to Woodland Courts in Selkirk; it meant the world to him to once again be in the same building as his beloved Barbara and walk down the hall to see her.

The family extends heartfelt thanks to all of mom’s caregivers over the years, especially the staff at Tudor House.

A celebration of mom’s life was held at Gilbart Funeral Home in Selkirk, MB, on Friday, August 8, 2025, at 1:00 p.m.

Honorary pallbearers were her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Active pallbearers were her grandsons Glenn, Patrick, Kelly, and Keenon, and great-grandsons Braeden and Jadyn.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in mom’s memory to the Alzheimer Society of Manitoba, 120 Donald St, Winnipeg, MB R3C 4G2.

Miyohkwâmi, Coo-coom (Kookum). Kisâkihitin, we will see you later. xoxo

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