Elaine Stefanyshyn of Yorkton SK passed away following a brief struggle with cancer on October 16 at the age of 65. Elaine was survived by her only daughter Shawna Stefanyshyn, her brother Henry Stefanyshyn of Springside, sister's Olga (Jack) McInnis of Calgary, Violet (Abe) Sandnes of Dawson Creek and Sonia Stefanyshyn of Yorkton, and sister-in-law Irene Stefanyshyn, formerly of Springside but now of Manitoba, and many nieces and nephews. Elaine was predeceased by her father Mike (1986), her mother Mary (1997), brothers Robert (1979), Peter (1991) and John (2004), her sister Doreen (2007) and sister-in-law Alice (2004) Stefanyshyn. Elaine was truly a "farm girl" at heart who followed her big sisters to the city of Calgary. It was there that she bought a home with "the girls" - Doreen and Sonia whom also helped Elaine raise her daughter for almost 38 years. Elaine spent most of her working life either in a hospital or a meat packing plant. Both jobs gave her great satisfaction. Five years ago Elaine once again followed her sisters back to Saskatchewan to retire. She spent a lot of her newly free time driving around the district visiting her old school, church and farm. Anyone who knew Elaine loved her, because she lived life freely never letting anything or anyone tie her down. Her biggest passion in life was her pursuit to win the Big One! Whatever the form, horse racing, BINGO or lotto's. She always went with the long shot! A Prayer Service was held on Sunday, October 20, 2013 at the Chapel of Bailey's Funeral Home in Yorkton. Requiem Divine Liturgy was celebrated on Monday, October 21, 2013 at St. Mary's Ukrainian Catholic Church in Yorkton with Rev. Father Ray Lukie, C.Ss.R. as the Celebrant. The responses were led Ed Pindus and parish choir members. The cross bearer was Larren Clark and the epistle reader was Doreen Clark. Reflections of Elaine's life were shared by Doreen Clark. The interment took place at St. Mary's Parish Cemetery in the Whitesand District with Richard Stefanyshyn, Ryley Stefanyshyn, Mike Stefanyshyn, Devan Stefanyshyn, Dawson Stefanyshyn and Walter Hudy serving as the casket bearers. Memorials in Elaine's name may be made to the Canadian Cancer Society. Condolences may be forwarded to the family by visiting www.baileysfuneralhome.com Vichnaya Pamyat! Eternal Memory! Funeral arrangements were in care of Bailey's Funeral Home.
