Obituary of Jessie Kazmerik

KAZMERIK: Jessie Kazmerik (née Wiun) age 78 years, beloved wife of John Kazmerik, mother of Brian, Kathy and Trish died peacefully in Brandon on May 18, 2010. Jessie was born to Harry and Katie Wiun of Keld, Manitoba on August 25, 1931. Her family moved to Dauphin where Jessie excelled in school. Due to an ailing father and difficult financial situation, Jessie was forced to leave school early to support the family. She completed a business course and pursued a career in banking. In 1951 Jessie met John while working at the Bank of Montreal in Dauphin. John and Jessie were married in 1953 and spent their early years in Winnipeg where Jessie worked as a bookkeeper. Shortly after their first child Brian was born, they moved to Brandon where they raised their family. During this time Jessie completed her high school diploma. Her love for learning was instilled in her children; she encouraged them as they completed their university degrees. Jessie had a passion for baseball, playing in her younger years and faithfully following the Blue Jays for the last 20 years. She excelled at bowling and enjoyed the friendships she made with her teammates. Gardening was in her blood and she took great pride growing and preserving a variety of fruits and vegetables - her apple and saskatoon pies were unsurpassed. Jessie's faith was unwavering and she drew strength from the Lord, especially during the last year. When most thought she would never walk again or go home from the hospital, Jessie showed such determination her doctor described as "nothing short of a miracle". Her last two months at home, with her devoted husband by her side, were joyful. Her family is thankful for this special time they had together. Jessie dedicated her life to her family, friends and the Lord. She always put others before herself even when she was in poor health. Her motto was "tomorrow will be a better day". Jessie is survived by her husband John, their children Brian (Lisa), Kathy (Dan) and Trish (Kevin); her precious grandchildren, Katrice, Alex and Nathan; brother John (Anne) Wiun, sister Marianne Wiun; and many nieces and nephews. Jessie was predeceased by her brother Bill. The family extends their gratitude to Reverend Father Michael Tkachuk, Dr. L. Groves and to Bev and Jim Renwick for all their support. Mass of Christian burial was held on May 22, 2010 at St. Mary's Ukrainian Catholic Church. The family thanks all who gave their support at this difficult time. Donations may be made in Jessie's memory to the Heart & Stroke Foundation of Manitoba, Unit 3, 824 – 18th Street, Brandon, Manitoba, R7A 5B7.