CONSTANCE (CONNIE) JOSEPHINE SARCHUK

Connie's beautiful story came to its close on November 28th at the age of 92.

Those who are richer for having shared their lives with her are Doug, her partner in life; her children Renee (Tom), Leslie (Derek), Alex, and Nancy (François); her adored grandchildren Tasia, Milla, Lena, Hannah, and Lily; and her great-grandchildren Oscar, Freddie, and Isla. She also leaves her brothers Dennis (Lydia), Nicholas (Oksana) and Andrij (Amanda).

Born and raised in the prairies of Alberta, Connie arrived in her beloved Winnipeg at fifteen. She graduated from St. Andrew's College and later from United College (University of Manitoba) with a B.A. in Psychology. At nineteen, and not yet finished school, she married Al and embraced the quintessential 1950s dream: a suburban home, four children, car trips, and summers at the cottage.

In the early 1970s, Connie found herself a single mother and set out to reinvent her life. With resilience and flair, she returned to university, attending classes alongside students half her age. She earned her degree in Occupational Therapy from the School of Medical Rehabilitation in 1975 and began her professional journey. After several years as the Director of OT at Deer Lodge Hospital, she launched a twenty-year career with Manitoba Health as Special Programs Consultant in the Long-Term Care Branch. There, she left an enduring impact through her work implementing the adult daycare program, all while forging lifelong friendships.

One of the great adventures of her life came in 1991, when she worked with CUSO in the Solomon Islands as head of rehabilitation at the hospital in Honiara. This was followed by two stints in post-Soviet Ukraine—full-circle moments for the daughter of early Ukrainian immigrants. After her first retirement in 1996, she continued her calling as a clinical therapist at Concordia Hospital until retiring once more in November 2007.

Connie’s volunteerism was wide-ranging and heartfelt. She gave her time as a member of the board of the Winnipeg Art Gallery, Oseredok, the I.O.D.E., and Riverview Health Centre, among many others. She always looked back with pride on her years as one of the original members of Alpha Omega Alumnae, a group of young Ukrainian women dedicated to championing Ukrainian art and culture.

But she saved one of her most memorable contributions for later in life. Her deep passion for literature led her to the Millenium Library at the age of 83, where she discovered the Friends of the Library—and where the Friends discovered their perfect volunteer. As the manager of the Used Book Cart, “Bookcart Connie” delighted in connecting with people, curating collections, and spreading the joy of words.

Along with her love of a good book, Connie was in her element when exploring the world. Her travels truly spanned the globe, and she was as at ease in the heat of the tropics as she was wandering the galleries of Europe. In her later years, a highlight was welcoming friends and family to share in the golden beauty of Provence.

Another of Connie’s lifelong passions was the opera. Although not a singer, she lit up the stage with the Manitoba Opera in non-singing roles in Il Trovatore, La Bohème, and, in 2017, Werther, her final appearance.

Connie was a shining star—on the stage and in our hearts. She was luminous in every facet of her life, with a beauty, wit, and smile that charmed all who knew her.

In accordance with her wishes, cremation has taken place and no formal service will be held.

Donations may be made to Oseredok Ukrainian Cultural and Educational Center or Deer Lodge Center.

Connie’s family kindly requests that all of her friends and relatives take a few minutes to honour her memory by sharing photos, memories, and stories, using the comment section on this page.

​

ETHICAL DEATH CARE

Cremation & Life Celebrations

1833 Portage Avenue - Winnipeg

204-421-5501 - www.ethicaldeathcare.com

​