Wojcik's Funeral Chapel & Crematorium - Obituaries

James (Jim) Melchior Cress

Tue, 26 May 2026 14:27:12

IN LOVING MEMORY OF JAMES (JIM) MELCHIOR CRESS DECEMBER 28, 1941 - MAY 22, 2026

Jim passed away peacefully on May 22, 2026, at the age of 84. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Annette; his sons, Carl (Michelle) and Jason; and his granddaughters, Kadence and Charlie. He was preceded in death by his parents, Melchior and Erie, and his daughter, Karen May Cress. Jim was a proud veteran, who served in the Army from 1958 to 1981, followed by a twenty-year career as a network IT professional until 2003. In retirement, he loved traveling as a winter snowbird from 2008 to 2017, dedicating much of his time to volunteering at the Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge in Texas. He was a man of many passions who enjoyed gliding, camping, woodworking, playing guitar, and listening to bluegrass music. Above all, he cherished time spent with his family and friends. The family extends a heartfelt thank you to the staff at Grace Hospice for their exceptional care and support. At his request, no funeral service will be held. An intimate celebration of life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Grace Hospice.

Irene Mitchell

Wed, 27 May 2026 10:09:54

IRENE MITCHELL

Irene Mitchell was born on June 1, 1948, in Toronto, and from the beginning seemed fairly determined to do life exactly her own way. Raised in Toronto with her older siblings Anne and Robert by parents who probably had no idea what they were unleashing on the world, Irene grew into a fiercely intelligent, deeply compassionate, occasionally stubborn, and gloriously unconventional woman who refused to live quietly or think small. On September 9, 1978, she married her soulmate, Bill Ross. She did not take his last name, because feminism was not a phase, thank you very much. Together they built a life in Thunder Bay, where they raised Fiona and Graeme in a household full of books, opinions, canoe gear, and the constant hum of Irene organizing and planning. Irene had an aggressively Type A personality that somehow managed to be both deeply admirable and mildly terrifying. She approached life with sunscreen, a Tilley hat, strong opinions, and the unwavering belief that her granola recipe had been perfected. She turned the family front yard into a garden because grass was boring, and flowers were better. Summers often involved paddling through Quetico Provincial Park, where she happily embraced bugs, bad weather, questionable portages, and whatever adventure came next. In the winter, she could often be found downhill skiing, charging down hills with the same intensity and determination she brought to every other part of her life. Professionally, Irene spent her life trying to make systems fairer and more humane. She worked as a social worker, police complaints commissioner, and later as a land claims negotiator for the Province of Ontario. She believed deeply in justice, advocacy, and doing work that mattered, even when it was difficult. Her greatest joy, however, was her family. She was a loving wife to Bill, proud mother to Fiona (Nick) and Graeme (Nancy), and an adoring grandmother to Valerie, Atlas, and Flora, who inherited at least some combination of her curiosity, determination, and inability to do things the boring way. Irene will be remembered for her sharp mind, strong opinions, adventurous spirit, love of good food and wild places, and complete unwillingness to become conventional just because society expected it. She lived fully, argued passionately, laughed loudly, loved deeply, and left behind stories that will absolutely continue to be retold, sometimes accurately. She will be missed enormously. Friends of Irene can honour her by spending time outdoors, planting some flowers, or donating on her behalf to Parkinson Canada. A celebration of Irene’s life will take place in Winnipeg at a future date, likely involving strong opinions, good food, and stories told loudly.

Francis Buskell

Wed, 20 May 2026 10:13:50

FRANCIS BUSKELL It is with profound love and deep sadness that the family of Francis Buskell (née Losky) announces her peaceful passing on May 18, 2026, at the remarkable age of 103. Francis will be lovingly remembered by her sons Craig Buskell, and Danny Buskell, daughter in-laws Shelly Buskell, Candy Buskell and her grandchildren Cameron Buskell, Cameron’s wife Shelsea Buskell, Andrew Buskell, Andrew’s wife Helen Anne Curry, Kathleen Buskell, Sarah Ling, Cody Buskell and Troy Munn. She was predeceased by her husband of 69 years, Hugh Buskell, her daughter Linda Munn and her son Barry Buskell. Francis was a cheery, kind, considerate and loving person and was devoted to her husband and extended family. She will be greatly missed. May thanks to the caring staff of Heritage Lodge where Francis spent the last decade. The Estate has requested that no funeral service will be held.

Helen "Len" Wilkie ((nee Koswin))

Thu, 21 May 2026 08:59:46

HELEN (LEN) WILKIE (nee KOSWIN) June 17, 1929 – May 18, 2026

Peacefully at West Park Manor Personal Care Home on May 18th, 2026. Our Mom, Helen, passed away, just 30 days shy of her 97th birthday. Mom was predeceased by her parents Harry and Mary, her loving husband of 55 years Jim Sr., son Jim Jr. and grandson Christopher Edwards. She is survived by her children, Melanie (Phil) Edwards of Medicine Hat, AB, Sharon Stubbs of Millcreek, Utah, Heather (Bill) Archer, Don (Kate) and Scott, all of Winnipeg. Also left to mourn are 13 grandchildren, 12 great grandchildren and 5 great-great Grandchildren. Mom was born in Ituna, Saskatchewan and spent her youth in Regina. She and Dad married in 1948, after which they moved to Winnipeg to start their family. Mom and Dad raised the six of us primarily in the St. James-Assiniboia area before downsizing and moving to the West End. Mom also worked part-time at the Eaton’s Mail Order Store for many years and once enough of us had “left the nest” Mom then moved on to work for and eventually retire from the City of Winnipeg as a Cashier at various venues, including a number of years at Sherbrook Pool. As per Mom’s wishes, there will be no formal service. Her ashes will be joined with Dad’s and scattered at the location of their “first date” in Saskatchewan. Our family would like to express our sincere thanks and appreciation to all of the staff at West Park Manor for their wonderful caring of Mom over the last 10 years. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to West Park Manor 3199 Grant Ave. R3R 1X2

“The song has ended, but the melody lingers on” - Irving Berlin

Rhue Grace Hayden

Tue, 26 May 2026 08:17:01

RHUE GRACE HAYDEN

Rhue Grace Hayden was born in Toledo, Ohio, in 1942, the daughter of Grace and George. Four years later, she became the proud older sister of Rhys Layton. She was raised in Waukegan, Illinois, and enjoyed a childhood filled with picnics on Lake Michigan and adventures with her brother and cousins. At the age of 18, Rhue moved to Laramie, Wyoming, to attend the University of Wyoming, home of the Cowboys. She later moved to Jackson, Wyoming, for work, where she met her future husband, Worth Hayden. The two married three years later in Jackson. Shortly after their wedding, Rhue and Worth moved to Utah, where Rhue worked to support Worth while he completed his bachelor’s degree. They then headed north to Edmonton, Alberta, so Worth could attend graduate school at the University of Alberta and reconnect with their friend Jan Murie from Jackson, who was also attending the university. Rhue continued working in insurance offices to help pay the bills while Worth completed his master’s degree. Their son, Reade, was born in Edmonton in 1969. Two years later, the family moved to Winnipeg, where Rhue would live for the rest of her life. In 1973, their daughter Leigh was born. Rhue worked as a school secretary at Dieppe, General Byng, and Bairdmore Schools, where she expertly corralled students, teachers, and administrators alike. Rhue was truly the life of the party. She loved her family and friends deeply, and she left a lasting impression on everyone she met. With her larger-than-life personality, endless energy, and take-charge spirit, she brought people together wherever she went. She was a gifted organizer and planner, coordinating golf tournaments, family reunions, and countless backyard parties. She became a wedding officiant, and performed dozens of marriages, enjoying helping couples start their lives together in touching and unorthodox ways. She was also a dedicated volunteer and active community member, giving her time to the Roblin Park Community Centre, the Canadian Cancer Society, the Alzheimer Society of Canada, the Winnipeg Christmas Cheer Board, the Canadian Red Cross, and the Manitoba Theatre Centre. Rhue loved bridge, golf, and cheering on the Chicago Bears. At Dieppe School, she earned the nickname “The Refridgerette,” proudly wearing the custom jersey created for her. One of her deepest regrets was never being able to attend a Chicago Bears game with her father. She also loved to travel and enjoyed exploring much of North America, Europe, and Asia. Despite living with Alzheimer’s, Rhue remained positive, bright, and full of spirit until the very end. One hospital physician remarked that she was among the happiest patients he had ever met. The care team at Victoria Hospital (4 North) treated her with great kindness and compassion. Rhue was a loyal and fiercely loving wife, mother, and friend. She was an advocate and advisor, a co-conspirator and coach, an organizer and orator. She is deeply missed, endlessly loved, and greatly admired. Her impact lives on in the many people whose lives she touched, along with the echoes of her fabulous laugh and beautiful spirit. Rhue’s celebration of life will be held on August 19, 2026 at the Assiniboine Park Pavilion Atrium from 1-4 pm.

Tracy Lea Marie Hobbins

Tue, 26 May 2026 09:50:04

TRACY LEA MARIE HOBBINS August 15, 1957 – May 18, 2026

It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Tracy Lea Marie Hobbins on May 18, 2026, in Winnipeg, Manitoba, after a courageous and lengthy battle with Stage 4 cancer. Tracy passed away peacefully at the age of 68, surrounded by the love and memories of those who cherished her most. Tracy is lovingly remembered by her sons, Michael Hobbins and Daniel Hobbins; her grandson, Michael Hobbins Jr.; along with many extended family members and dear friends whose lives she touched deeply. She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Dennis “Mike” Hobbins, with whom she shared a lifetime of love, strength, and devotion. Born in Baudette, Minnesota, USA, to Richard and Phyllis Flamand, Tracy spent most of her life in Winnipeg, Manitoba, where she built a loving home and devoted herself fully to her family. Above all else, Tracy was a proud mother and grandmother, and the love she carried for her family was unconditional and endless. Tracy was a truly beautiful soul — kind-hearted, selfless, compassionate, and strong. She had a heart of gold and a smile that could brighten even the darkest days. She was the kind of person who always put others before herself, offering comfort, support, and love without hesitation. Whether through her warm hugs, caring words, or quiet strength, Tracy had a way of making people feel safe, welcomed, and deeply loved. She worked tirelessly throughout her life to provide for her family and create a life filled with love, laughter, and togetherness. Her greatest joy came from spending time with the people she loved most, especially her sons and grandson, who meant the world to her. In her retirement years, Tracy treasured every moment spent making memories with her family — moments that will now be carried in their hearts forever. To know Tracy was to know genuine love, kindness, and resilience. Her presence brought comfort, her laughter brought joy, and her love brought people together. The impact she made on those around her will never fade, and her memory will continue to live on through the countless lives she touched. Tracy Lea Marie Hobbins will be deeply missed, forever loved, and always remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Jerry Robert Brown

Tue, 19 May 2026 09:48:30

JERRY ROBERT BROWN

With deep sadness and profound gratitude for a life well lived, the family of Jerry Brown announces his passing on Thursday, May 14, 2026 at the age of 79 years. Left to mourn his loss are his wife of 44 years, Marylyn, siblings, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews as well as many friends he considered family. Jerry lived a life defined by the passions that shaped him. He had a deep commitment to the sport of curling. He ran the ‘Brier Patch’ at both the 1991 and 2003 World Curling Championships in Winnipeg. His commitment resulted in the honour of being placed in the Manitoba Curling Hall of Fame as a Builder. He was a lifetime member of his home club – Deer Lodge, a place where he built friendships, celebrated victories, and poured countless hours into a sport he loved. He also had a passion for the Winnipeg Blue Bombers and served on the Board of Directors for several years. Jerry loved music, especially The Beatles, and nothing brought him more joy than dancing with Marylyn—moments that captured the love they shared. His circle of friends was wide and loyal, and the golf trips they took together were legendary for their laughter, camaraderie, and the stories. Jerry’s favourite place was the home he and Marylyn shared in Florida and before that, the cottage they built together on the shores of Lake Winnipeg. Both places are a source of many memories that will continue to warm the hearts of those who loved him. Jerry had a deep love for animals, especially the many dogs he and Marylyn adopted over the years. Rocky and Reba will miss him dearly. His professional life was spent in the steel industry, where he was known for his integrity, work ethic, and the significant contributions he made. Jerry was particularly proud of his years with Brunswick Steel. He was a mentor to many, a thorn to some but was respected by most. He will be deeply missed and forever loved. If so desired donations can be made to the Winnipeg Humane Society, an organization near and dear to Jerry’s heart.

Tadeusz Sobieski

Wed, 20 May 2026 13:15:50

TADEUSZ (TED) SOBIESKI

It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Tadeusz (Ted) Sobieski on Thursday, May 14th, 2026. Surrounded by family. He is survived by his wife, Joan, children Kevin (Tina) and Stefanie (Kyle) as well as siblings Christine and Rosie (Eugene), many nieces and nephews. Ted was always a bright and positive person, always willing to lend a hand to those who needed it. He developed a passion for cars at a young age which led him to start working at Maryland Bridge Esso where he stayed for many years until continuing his education and becoming a mechanic then working for Eastern Chrysler. Through those jobs he made a lot of great friends, married his loving wife in 1973, built a home together and welcomed two children. Later in life he suffered a heart attack which changed his career path, allowing him to purchase Doner Paint and Hardware where he became an active member with the Northend Biz helping to rejuvenate the downtown area. After retiring he continued to help local groups he believed in until his last weeks including his local Citizens on Patrol. He was a very caring Father who always made sure his children were a large part of his life. He coached any sport he could for them & if he couldn’t, he made sure to be their biggest fan on the sidelines. His favourite things were being in the outdoors at the lake, on the trails, & on the water. He was also part of the Knights of Columbus for over 35 years including becoming Grand Knight. A service will be held at St. Theresa’s Church (3597 Main St, West St. Paul) for Monday, May 25th, 2026 at 10:00 am with interment to follow at Holy Ghost Cemetery (4387 Main St, West St. Paul). His strong passion for making change, helping others and dedication to the church will be missed by many. The family asks that in lieu of flowers please donate to the St. Boniface Hospital Foundation http://www.stbhf.ca/donate for the incredible cardiac care team to help continue the work they do for so many like our incredible Teddy.

Helen Elizabeth Hills

Fri, 22 May 2026 15:39:07

Helen Elizabeth Hills October 24, 1931 – May 12, 2026

Helen Elizabeth Hills (née Maroney), aged 94, passed away peacefully on May 12, 2026, at St. Boniface Hospital. Preceded by her husband Don in 2022, Helen is survived by her children; Heather Burgess (Don), Brenda Kuboth (Robert), Sheila McCuaig (John), One granddaughter, 4 step grandchildren and 4 step great grandchildren, sister Margaret as well as her many nieces and nephews. Helen was born in Marysville, New Brunswick. She became a nurse and worked in many provinces until settling in Pine Falls, Manitoba. There she met Don and married in 1962. She worked as a nurse until 1964 when they started their family. Helen was an active member of the Anglican Church of the Advent in Pine Falls and enjoyed spending time with many of the local ladies when she wasn’t busy collecting her many trophies from 5 pin bowling. Helen and Don moved to Winnipeg in 2009. There she met and made many new friends and became involved with St. Stephen’s Anglican Church. In 2022 Helen moved into River Ridge II Assisted Living. There she enjoyed the many activities and spending time with the other residents. In Oct. 2023 Parkinsonism Plus left Helen unable to walk and do things independently. She still kept a very positive outlook on life while the staff at River Ridge II cared for her and made sure she got to the activities. The family would like to thank the staff of 3 South (RR II) for their compassion and care. Service for Helen will be held on Friday, June 5th at 1:30pm at Wojcik’s Funeral Chapel (2157 Portage Ave.) In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Parkinson Canada.

Lorraine Antoinette Penner

Thu, 14 May 2026 14:35:13

Lorraine Antoinette Penner (née Vielfaure )

Lorraine Antoinette Penner (née Vielfaure ), passed away peacefully at home at the age of 91. Born on July 30, 1934 in Somerset, Manitoba. Lorraine was the youngest of 9 children and grew up playing hockey (yes, she was a goalie) and thrived at baseball. In her late teens, Lorraine moved to Winnipeg where she met the love of her life, Jacob (Jake) Penner when they worked together at Eatons mail order. Together they shared 48 wonderful years of marriage, and she looked forward to being reunited with Jake. Lorraine was a homemaker and devoted her time to her four sons, who always kept her on her toes. She would share countless stories of the mischief and fun they would get into. Though she had four sons, Lorraine’s home was always open to their friends and neighbourhood children, many of whom she treated like family. Lorraine will be deeply missed by her sons Jamie (Sheri), Kenneth, Keith, and Philip (Manuela); her grandchildren Justin (James), Sarah (Saliou), Brittany (Josh), Katelyn (Taylor), Alicia, Zachary (Leah), Em, and Noah; as well as her ten great-grandchildren, who brought her immense joy. She also leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends. Lorraine was predeceased by her husband, Jake, her parents, Gaston and Rose and her 8 siblings. Lorraine was known for her quick wit and loving teasing — her playful jokes were one of the many ways she showed affection. Lorraine loved visiting with her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren, and cherished the times they could all be together. Lorraine loved hearing stories about the adventures and milestones of her great-grandchildren. She also had a well-known sweet tooth, and many of her grandchildren will fondly remember raiding her candy drawer during visits, or crowding around her famous chips and dip. A devoted Catholic, Lorraine found comfort and community in her faith and enjoyed attending church throughout her life. She treasured spending time with friends and staying connected with family both near and far. Lorraine’s warmth, humor, and love for her family will be remembered always and carried forward by all who knew her. The family would like to extended their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Kotesha and the Brathwaites Pharmacy family, who showed such care for Lorraine throughout her life and especially the last few months. A special thank you to Jamie and Sheri who opened their home to Lorraine the last few years. A funeral mass will be held at 11:00 a.m. on May 26, 2026 at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church, 4588 Roblin Blvd., Winnipeg. Interment will occur at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the Heart and Stroke Foundation in honour of Jake. After the mass, please join the family in the church hall to both celebrate the life of Lorraine and mourn her passing. She will be profoundly missed by all who knew her, and forever carried in our hearts.

We will see you in the movies.

Marcianna Michele Dankewich

Mon, 25 May 2026 09:07:25

Marcianna Michele Dankewich

It is with great sadness, that the family of Marcianna Michele Dankewich announces her sudden passing, on May 9th 2026 surrounded by loved ones at the age of 60 years old. Her memory will be forever cherished by Harold, her Daughters Tabitha, Madelaine and their children, siblings Steve and Mari, her Aunts, Uncles, Cousins, and her Dear Mother Gwen as well and nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her Father Steve, best friend Michelle, Aunties Heather, Genora and Sharon, Grandparents Eugenia, Gregory, Irene and George. Marcianna was the most creative and passionate woman, who had the ability to touch anything and turn it into a masterpiece..whether it be a piano, a paper, or even a lump of clay. Marcianna enjoyed cold soup, loved the sound of rain on a tin roof - and found purpose in helping others. Marcianna's family would like to express such gratitude towards Father Isador Dziadyk and the MICU staff at HSC for taking such good care of Marcianna and her family under such saddening and sudden circumstances. The family would also like to thank Shannon and the staff at Wocjiks for helping navigate and provide all of Marcianna'a afterlife planning and services.

Werner Henry Kornelsen

Tue, 12 May 2026 08:05:00

HENRY KORNELSEN Peacefully, after a brief period of illness, it is with deep regret that we announce the death of Henry Kornelsen on May 7, 2026, at 88 years of age. Henry is survived by his wife of 65 years, Paulette, children Cora, Doug, Michelle, Cheryl (Stephen) and Rachelle, as well as by his 11 grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild. Henry is also survived by his sisters Mary, Jeannie, Betty Anne and Carol. Henry is predeceased by his parents, siblings Roy, Connie, Shirley and grandchild Melissa. The family would like to provide a special thanks to West Park Manor Care Home for their great care and continued support for Henry.