Lil Popoff

Lil Popoff, beloved wife of Mike Popoff of Canora, SK, passed away peacefully at the Canora Hospital on September 24, 2017, at the age of 81 years.
Lil was born May 14, 1936, on the family farm near Usherville, SK, to George and Anne (Lyzun) Sawchuk. She attended school in Endeavour, SK and achieved her grade eight education.
As a young girl, Lil helped at the family café in Endeavour, SK. Her gentle, friendly personality prevailed and as she got older, she had the opportunity to gain employment in varied capacities. In 1950, Lil’s family relocated to Canora, SK. While she continued to waitress at the ‘Silver Grill’ she caught the eye of a patron by the name of Mike Popoff. On September 21, 1956, Lil and Mike were united in marriage at St. Andrew’s United Church in Canora, SK. Together, Lil and Mike were blessed with five healthy boys: Terry, Greg, Craig, Danny and Dale.
Throughout her years, Lil raised a beautiful family, worked as an Avon Sales Representative, taught Nursery School, and was employed with Leson’s Funeral Home as a valued staff member for many years.
Lil’s spare time was spent baking, cooking and passionately caring for her family and friends. She graciously volunteered in the community as she promoted and dedicated her efforts to the ‘Meals on Wheels’ program. She also devoted her time to the local Alanon support group. Whatever Lil did, she did it with compassion, kindness, a loving smile and a sparkle in her eye.
At the age of 44 years, Lil faced one of life’s biggest challenges when she was diagnosed with cervical cancer. Overcoming and becoming a survivor brought her great pride as she conquered that battle. However, nothing could ever compare to the contentment, love, and pure joy she felt for her family, as they meant the world to her. Lil was very proud of the fine men her boys became, as well as her grandchildren and grandpuppies, who all brought her more happiness than she could ever express.
She will be remembered for her beautiful smile, friendly nature, her integrity and the compassion she so easily shared with others and will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved her.
Lil was predeceased by her father, George and her brother, Adam Sawchuk.
She is survived and lovingly remembered by her husband of 61 years, Mike Popoff; her children: Terry (Joan), Greg (Kathy), Craig (Sharlene), Danny (Lori) and Dale; grandchildren: Breanna, Scott, Brett, Owen and Courtney; mother, Anne Sawchuk; brothers, Peter (Anne) and Jerry (Maryann) Sawchuk and her sister, Dianne (Greg) Garbolinsky; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, extended family and many friends.
In Lil’s honour, a Celebration of Life Service was celebrated on Tuesday, October 3, 2017, at 2:00 pm from the Chapel of Leson’s Funeral Home, with Reverend Nancy Brunt officiating. Those wishing to make expressions of sympathy may make donations to the Canora Hospital Auxiliary, as tokens of remembrance, in memory of Lil Popoff.