Marilyn Elaine Shelest

1937 - 2021

In Loving Memory
Marilyn Elaine Shelest
July 19th, 1937 – August 25th, 2021


With great sadness, the family of Marilyn Elaine Shelest announce her passing. After experiencing a severe stroke, our beautiful Marilyn closed her eyes and drifted away gently into the evening night. She was surrounded by loved ones who helped her through. Left to mourn is her devoted husband of 65 years Walter; daughters Lenna (Rick), Cindy (Dave), and Lissa; grandchildren Ashley (Scott), David & Mitchell; and great-grandson Leo. She was about to be a Great Grandma for the second time. She was predeceased by her parents Leonard & Jean Peacock and Stepmother Joan, her brother Robert, and Baba Shelest.
Mum was a wonderful loving woman with a laugh that could erupt and wash over a crowd, making others feel warm and happy. She was feisty, fun, loving, and would help anyone in need. She had a strong belief in the adage that "Loving is Giving" and was a living example of this during her lifetime. Mum established many strong and rewarding friendships over the years and was loved by many.
Mum was born in Orillia, Ontario and often reminisced about her Norman Rockwell childhood. She moved with her family to Kemano, BC where she met and married Walter. In 1962, they moved to Prince George and raised a family in the home that the Shelest family built. They built strong ties within their neighbourhood and the community.
Mum was the proud Head Secretary at Lakewood Junior Secondary for 33 years until she retired. A bursary was established in her honour. She was the smiling face that kept things quietly together at the school. Mum also worked at Woodward's, volunteered with the Jaycettes/Jaycees with Walter and also for a time at the Stroke Club.
Mum loved to travel and fly in airplanes. Once, she almost flew one when we were bumped off a flight and they sat her with the pilots. We could hear her laughter as she entertained the pilots. Mum went to Mexico, Poland, the Bahamas but especially wonderful for her was Hawaii. Hawaii spoke to her senses.
As soon as you get to your Hawaii, Mum, find a spot on the beach near a grass shack, get the Mai Tais ready and we will see you when God sends us to you. Until then, our hearts will ache and we will miss you beyond anything we could imagine.