It is with deep sadness that we announce the recent passing of Mary Soroka on May 25th, 2021 in Vernon, B.C. at the age of 92 years. She was born on September 1st, 1928 in Marlin, Saskatchewan to Michael and Zenovia (Zenia) Shewchuk. As the eldest of four children, she grew up on a farm in Marlin, Saskatchewan and went on to work at a hospital in North Battleford as a stenographer.
She married Yaroslaw Soroka in 1950 and together they farmed in Whitkow, Saskatchewan and raised seven children. In 1967 they moved the family to Vernon, B.C. where they owned and operated a motel, restaurant, store and service station complex and later a resort on Mara Lake.
Mary worked at Delview Hospital and then at the Winfield Packing House while raising their large family. She passed along her love of family, gardening, cooking, Ukrainian traditions and her faith to her children.
Many wonderful celebrations, gatherings and memories were made as the family continued to grow. Mary was kind, loving and had a very caring, gentle spirit. She was a longtime member of the Assumption of St. Mary's Ukrainian Orthodox Church and the Ukrainian Women's Association of Canada.
Mary will be lovingly remembered by her children; Chris (Doug) Dirk, Audrey (Ian) Bull, Iris (Greg) McCaffrey, Ivan (Sandi) Soroka, Stephanie (Greg) Walmsley and Robert Soroka, 15 grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, her sisters; Anne Kozakewich and Pauline Johnson, her sister-in-law; Pat Shevchuk along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members and friends.
Mary was predeceased by her parents; Michael and Zenovia Shewchuk, her brother; Bill, her husband; Yaroslaw (Slim) and by her daughter; Sandra.
In her journey of life, mom lived out the words of Proverbs 3:5-6 before her family and others who knew her.
Trust in the Lord with all your heart
And lean not on your own understanding
In all your ways acknowledge Him
And He shall direct your path.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks and appreciation to the staff at Orchard Valley and Heron Grove for their wonderful care over the past seven years. In keeping with Covid-19 restrictions, a small family funeral will be held on June 3rd, 2021 led by Reverend Father Chad Pawlyshyn and Mary will be laid to rest beside her husband in the Pleasant Valley Cemetery.
As an expression of sympathy, those who wish to do so may send donations in memory of Mary to the Assumption of St. Mary's Ukrainian Orthodox Church of Vernon or to your favorite charity.
Funeral arrangements have been made with Bethel Funeral Chapel Ltd., 5605 27th Street, Vernon, B.C. V1T 8Z5
(250) 542-1187
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