Mitzie WASYLIW

WASYLIW, Mitzie (Mary)
October 25, 1950 - September 30, 2014
It is with hearts full of sadness that we share the news of our beloved Mitzie's passing. Cherished wife of Larry for 35 years, mother to Jason and Karla (Pat), and grandmother to Kennedy and Wyatt, Mitzie has, for 63 years, shared her unparalleled zest for life, enriching the lives of those within her precious circle of family and friends. Mitzie, the eldest daughter of nine children from rural Saskatchewan was an entrepreneur from the age of 21. Founder and president of 'Dew Productions Events & Entertainment' for 35 years, she was recognized by her peers as a leader in her industry and as a driving force behind the arts, event and entertainment scene in Alberta and Western Canada. Mitzie and Larry had a vision to restore the Historical William Roper Hull Home at the Bow Valley Ranche in Fish Creek Provincial Park. These efforts resulted in the bestowal of the "1999 Citizen of the Year Award". She also received the Calgary Western Legacy Award in 2010 and the Queen Elizabeth Diamond Jubilee Medal in 2013. Co-founders of "The Ranche at Fish Creek Restoration Society" (1995) their combined labor of love has garnered Mitzie much recognition and admiration for her efforts. Subsequently, Mitzie resolved to showcase art in the gardens at the Ranche. To the time of her passing, Mitzie, as the project's Fundraising Chair, saw the completion of the Artisan Gardens at the official grand opening in September, showcasing 72 Canadian Artists and 175 works of Art in nature year round. This vision was born in honor of children as our future, family legacy and the First Nations people. In January of 2009, Mitzie was awarded the Woman of Vision Award in Calgary Alberta. Past nominations included Wild Rose Foundation Volunteerism Award 2002, Rothman Canadian Woman of the Year Awards 2002, Woman of Distinction 2001. Mitzie served on a number of boards and committees as well donating her efforts to many worthy causes over the years: Special Board for Police Commission, Calgary Canada Day Committee Board, Calgary Children's Hospital, ISES Calgary Chapter, CSEP Designations, Calgary Zoo, CCVB White Hatters committee, Girls Hockey and Cancer 24 hour Relay Board among many. Nothing created more joy for Mitzie than her family. In her last days, she lovingly held her new grandson in her arms. Despite facing ongoing health challenges for 16 years, there was always time for a "sleepover". Nothing deterred this exceptional woman, who fulfilled her bucket list with skydiving, scuba, climbing Kilimanjaro, hiking the Inca Trail, parasailing from Mount Seven, river rafting, and traveling to exotic and unusual places, usually with her treasured Larry at her side. Her vast community of friends and large extended family adored her, always wanting to bask in the glory of her infectious spirit as she took the lead passionately and creatively. Mitzie's life motto..."Dare to make a difference through optimism and perseverance!" We will carry your torch as another adventure awaits you, beautiful Mitzie. A Celebration of Mitzie's Life will occur at the Ranche at Fish Creek Provincial Park on Friday, October 17, 2014 2:00 p.m. under the teepee. A true reflection of her spirit is being unveiled at the Celebration of Life in the form of CABALLO, a magnificent work of art, so that generations to come can appreciate the passion & dedication behind the vision of the Artisan Gardens and the restoration of the Ranche at Fish Creek Provincial Park. In lieu of flowers, donations to support this grand and permanent tribute to her legacy would be gracefully accepted at www.bowvalleyranche.com.