YVONNE ZUREVINSKI

With hearts full of cherished memories, we announce the peaceful passing of our mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, Mrs. Yvonne Margaret Lorraine Zurevinski, on October 9, 2025, in her 94th year.

Born in Stratford, Ontario, Yvonne's journey through life has been one marked by strength, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to her community and family. From an early age, Mom was met by many challenges, including the very early loss of her brother and mother. She refused to let these losses define her. Instead, she became a beacon of light and hope to all who knew her.

Yvonne's early years in Stratford were the foundation upon which she built a life of purpose and grace. Her transition to eternal rest took place in Thunder Bay, Ontario, where she was surrounded by the love of her family. Yvonne leaves behind a beautiful tapestry of lives she has touched: her sons Michael (Christine) and Mark (Lesya), her four grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren. Her extended family of cousins, nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and great-nephews will forever hold her in their hearts. Yvonne had countless friendships both near and far that survived in excess of 60 years.

Predeceased by her beloved husband Mike, her infant daughter Krisandra, and a host of cherished family members, Yvonne's spirit is now reunited with them in a place of peace and love. Her father and stepmother, Alvin and Jean Eades, her mother Margaret Eades (Newman), her brother Kenneth, and her twin sisters Sharon Balfour and Sandra Semple, her beloved maternal grandmother Sarah Newman, in-laws Peter and Mary Zurevinski, and countless others, have welcomed her with open arms.

Yvonne's professional life was nothing short of remarkable. She carved a path for women in the banking industry during her 34-year career at the Royal Bank of Canada. Starting in 1952 when the banking field was dominated by men, Yvonne was not just a participant but a trailblazer and advocate for women's rights. Her various management roles at RBC were performed with excellence and integrity, and upon her retirement in 1985, she left behind a legacy of female empowerment in the corporate world. The 39 years of retirement that followed were a testament to her hard work and the respect she earned in her field.

A devout Christian, Yvonne's faith was the cornerstone of her life. Her culinary skills were legendary, and she relished the joy of entertaining family and friends, turning every gathering into a celebration of togetherness. Beyond the walls of her home, Yvonne was a pillar in her community. As local President of Soroptimist International, she led with vision and vitality, promoting the welfare and advancement of women. In her younger years, her active involvement in St. Thomas Anglican Church was marked by service and dedication, where she often served as treasurer, managing with the same acumen and care as she did in her professional career.

Yvonne's life reminds us of the words of Helen Keller: "I long to accomplish a great and noble task, but it is my chief duty to accomplish small tasks as if they were great and noble." In every small act of kindness, every moment of service, she achieved greatness. Her story is one of a life well-lived and a love well-shared.

Always concerned about the underdog or the person with less, Mom taught us from a very young age to appreciate the simple things in life and be grateful. She shared with pleasure and most importantly never expecting anything in return.

Mom always said that she wanted to "leave this world with memories, not with dreams." She accomplished this time and time again. She was well-read and very well-travelled, that included countless cities in Canada and the US, many countries in Europe, Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and Oceania.

Her last dreams were to retain her independence and live on her own until she was called home by her maker. She was also determined to live until her youngest granddaughter, Tatiana, was married, some 2 months ago. Both of those dreams have now become memories.

As we bid farewell to Mom, we hold tightly to the memories and the lessons she imparted. Her love, her strength, and her unwavering spirit will forever be etched in the lives of those she touched. We celebrate Yvonne Zurevinski, a remarkable woman whose life was a testament to the power of faith, the beauty of hope, and the strength of love. Her legacy will continue to inspire us for generations to come.

We would like to thank the many staff members of ParaMed who helped Mom maintain her independence in her own residence until passing. A special thanks to PSW Alina and nurse Claudia. Mom considered you both as extended family. To the doctors and nursing staff at Thunder Bay Regional who made Mom's last few days most comfortable. Dr. Robrock, many thanks for the years of care.

At Mom's request, there will be no visitation or service. Cremation has taken place. Interment will be at the family plot in Mountain View Cemetery. If desired, Memorial Donations to the Thunder Bay District Humane Society would be appreciated.

As inscribed on the family plot headstone "Family is like branches on a tree; we all grow in different directions, yet our roots remain as one"
Condolences may be made through www.nwfainc.com