Phyllis Melina Bosnick

Phyllis Melina Bosnick, nee Cottam, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family in Thunder Bay, Ontario on Friday, December 22, 2017, at the age of 66 after a short but courageous battle with cancer.

Phyllis was born and raised in Nestor Falls, Ontario, and moved to Thunder Bay after high school, where she met her husband, Morris “Borax” Bosnick. They would raise two daughters; Lindsey, born in 1979, and Ashley, born in 1984. Phyllis' work included 14 years at the Bank of Montreal, along with over 25 years with Lakehead University. Her work with financial aid, scholarships, and bursaries at Lakehead helped countless students accomplish their educational dreams. During that time, Phyllis was very involved both provincially and nationally, and served as chair of OASFAA and president of CASFAA. For her profound dedication and hard work, she was awarded the CASFAA award of merit in 2013.

Phyllis' bucket list was always changing, as she accomplished so much in her far too short time here with us. Racing a Ferrari around a private track in Montreal, parasailing in Cancun, driving the Zamboni at The Barn, and getting the chance to play Wolfie at a Thunderwolves game were amongst the kooky things that got her so excited, and made us love her all the more.

Phyllis could often be found holding a cup of coffee, a caesar, or sometimes both. She loved to camp and travel, and the people she met while doing so. Phyllis shared her two daughters' love of figure skating, and served as a board member for the Thunder Bay Figure Skating Club, while also volunteering countless hours for competitions and ice shows.

Phyllis is survived by her husband of 41 years, Morris, daughters Lindsey (Michael Jim) Bosnick, Ashley (Kyle) Kokocinski, grandson Ryker Kokocinski, brother Brian Cottam, and the countless relatives and friends whose lives she has touched so deeply in her 66 years.

She is predeceased by her father, Norm Cottam, and mother, Pauline “Min” Cottam.

The Bosnick family would like to extend special thanks to Dr. Exley, as well as the teams in both the Cancer Clinic and Oncology Unit for their care, comfort, and support throughout Phyllis' treatment.

A celebration of life will be held at the Victoria Inn on Tuesday, January 9th from 1PM-4PM, where all those who knew Phyllis are encouraged to pay their respects. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that a donation be made in Phyllis' name to the Northern Cancer Fund. Alternatively, donations in Phyllis' memory are suggested to establish a bursary in her name at Lakehead University through donate.lakeheadu.ca.

Online condolences may be made at
www.sargentandson.com