ELIUK, Sylvia June
June 1, 1939 – December 29, 2020
Our Mom and Baba passed away on December 29, 2020.
She was born in Canmore on June 1st 1939 to parents Joseph and Anne Cherak. Growing up in a coal mining town was tough, but especially so when her father passed away when she was 10 and her sister Margaret was 5. As a result, Sylvia grew up with a deep appreciation of the value of family, of celebrating the good times and of the importance of helping others in the difficult ones. Everyone who knew Sylvia benefited from her care for others.
In High School, Sylvia caught the eye of Richard Eliuk. They married in Canmore but soon moved to the city for him to join up with the Calgary Fire Department. In Calgary she started working at Calgary Power, which turned into a lifelong career. They developed a network of enduring friends, who would join them for annual Salmon fishing trips, Canada Day Reunions, and winters in Arizona. Most recently, many joined them in celebrating their 60th Wedding Anniversary earlier this year.
Every family tree has a significant branch. Baba was our branch. While families inevitably all go their own way, Mom always found a way to bring us back together. We loved her cooking, adored her company and we all pause now to cherish our own memories. Whether celebrating a birthday, hosting Sunday dinners or gathering for the holidays, she always brought us back to what was most important – being together.
She is survived by her husband of 60 Years – Richard, and their three sons: Rick (Lori), Keith (Joanne) and Peter (Kathy) as well as her grandchildren Nichole (Scott), Patricia (Darren), Ethan/Quartz, Kieran, Joel, and Erica. She is also blessed with 4 great-grandchildren, Jacob, Chayse, Blake and Mason. Also survived by her cherished sister Margaret Hall and nephews Mark (Tracy) and Steven as well great nephew Jamie and great nieces Michelle, Stacey and Stephanie.
For now we say goodbye Baba, but look forward to being together again soon to lay Sylvia to rest in full view of her beloved Rockies, and the Three Sisters that were a constant focus of her love of oil painting, especially getting that rundle rock just the right tone of grey.
A Memorial Mass will take place on Saturday, September 11, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. at The Shrine Church of Our Lady of the Rockies (2 Silvertip Trail, Canmore, AB T1W 1P4). Interment will take place at the Canmore Cemetery immediately following the service. Following the interment, all are invited to join with the family at the church for refreshments and a time of remembrance.
In lieu of flowers please consider a donation in Sylvia’s memory to the Calgary Firefighters Burn Treatment Society by mail 2234 30 Ave. NE, Calgary AB T2E 7K9 or Ph. 403-701-2876.
Arrangements entrusted to Lawrence (Larry) Slywka, Funeral Director
Cochrane Country Funeral Home – Ph: 403-932-1039
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My condolences to you Dick and your family.
Al
We are deeply saddened to hear of Sylvia’s passing. Our deepest condolences go out to you Richard and your entire family. Sylvia will always remain in our hearts.
To Richard and Family. We are saddened to hear of Sylvia’s passing. We will always remember her vibrant personality and love of life. Our condolences to all the family.
Dear Richard,
We were so sorry to hear the sad news of Sylvia’s sudden passing. It’s been our pleasure to have known you both for so long. Who will forget the notorious Christmas, or two, when we joined forces some forty years ago to inflict our carolling on the good people of Canmore? More recently I encouraged Sylvia to join the local art Guild to show off her paintings, but she was just too modest to do so. We will miss running into her warm smile when we pop out to the old mining town.
Our heartfelt condolences go out to you and all your family at this sad time.
Love,
Terry and Catherine Southwood
I am so sorry to hear about Sylvia. My deepest sympathies to you and your family.
I have some great memories of my cousin Sylvia and staying with her when she first had Rick and our family Christmas celebrations.
Take care, Nancy.
Dear Richard and Family
We were deeply saddened to hear of Sylvia’s passing. I have fond memories from our younger years, of times spent in Canmore with my cousins Sylvia and Margaret. We also remember the fun family gatherings that were held at Mom and Dad LeBel’s in Exshaw.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and all the family, during this very difficult time.
Sincerely
Ron and Bea
Richard and Family
Richard
We are deeply saddened by Sylvia’s passing. She was a great lady and I was always proud to have her as my cousin. Keeping you in our thoughts and prayers. Our heartfelt condolences go out to you and your family.
Sincerely
Grace and Allen LeBel
Dear Richard and Family!
I was so very sorry to hear of your loss of Sylvia! She was a very special lady, and I Will always treasure the times our two families shared together! Good memories! I love you Richard and wish all good things for you and your family! Please know that you have all my love and prayers! Take care Luv! God bless you all!
with much love from,
Lori Southwood xxx
It is with deep sadness to hear of Sylvia’s passing. She was an amazing lady and very dedicated to her family. Please accept our heartfelt sympathies.
Sylvia leaves behind a wonderful and caring family who will be a great source of comfort and support for each other.
Our thoughts are with the family during this difficult time.
Jennifer & John Ashton and Family