Winnipeg, Manitoba
MERLE SYSA
(nee MELNYK)
The angels have tears in their eyes today; a beautiful lady with a generous heart surrounded by family left our world on Saturday, October 17, 2015 to join her husband John in heaven.
Remaining to mourn Merle?s memory are her daughter, Melody (Earle) Johnson and son Martin (Kim); four loving grandchildren, Melinda, Krista (Chris), Matthew and Wesley; great-grandson Jack; sisters, Dorothy (Stanley) Sobieski, Olivia Boychuk and Rose Brykaliuk; brother Peter Melnyk; and many nieces; nephews; and friends. She was predeceased by her parents, Nicholas and Anne; sisters, Anne (Paul) Gensiorek, Gladys (Tony) Sawchuk, Margaret (Peter) Kostiuk and Natalie (Joe) Keller; brothers-in-law, Bill Boychuk and Mike Brykaliuk; as well as sister-in-law, Faith Melnyk.
In 1924 Merle was born on the homestead in Rossburn Municipality, Manitoba. While she lived at home she helped care for her sisters? children until she left to go to the big city, Winnipeg, to pursue a career as a hairdresser. After WWII Merle met the love of her life, John. They married in 1949 and resided in West Kildonan to raise their family. After Dad?s passing, Mom enjoyed her last six years at Riverwood Square Retirement Community where she was actively involved and made many new friends.
Mom enjoyed family dinners and gatherings, savouring every moment she had with her grandchildren and great-grandson. Mom has enough love in her heart to cover the world. Her hugs were genuine and you always felt loved. Mom?s beautiful flower and vegetable gardens were tended with the same love she gave to family. She had a warm smile and caring nature.
A celebration of Merle?s life will be held on Friday, October 30, 2015 at 2:00 p.m. in Atlantic-Garden City United Church, 725 Atlantic Avenue at Arlington Street, Winnipeg, MB, with Rev. Mary Best, presider.
Our family would like to express special thanks for the wonderful care from the staff at the Victoria Hospital and to Dr. K. Picard.
In lieu of flowers, as an expression of sympathy should friends and family desire, donations in Merle?s name may be made to the Victoria Hospital Foundation, 2340 Pembina Highway, Winnipeg, MB, R3T 2E8 or the Manitoba Lung Association, 629 McDermot Avenue, Winnipeg, MB, R3A 1P6.
Wojcik?s Funeral Chapel, 2157 Portage Avenue, Winnipeg, MB in care of arrangements 204.897.4665. For those who wish to sign Wojcik?s online Guest Book please visit our website at www.wojciksfuneralchapel.com
Our deepest sympathies on hearing of the loss of Merle. She was always kind to us kids on the block. May you find comfort in knowing that our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.
Dennis Marand
November 02, 2015 | Winnipeg, MB
So sorry to hear of Merle's passing. She was a great neighbour and was missed when she moved from our neighbourhood. She taught me so much about gardening. I miss trading plants with her and chatting over the fence. Rest in peace Merle.
Brenda & David Martin
October 27, 2015 | Winnipeg, MB
We are so saddened to hear of your Mother's passing. She will always be remembered in the hearts of her family and friends. Memories of your Mom and Dad will get you all through this very tough time. Remember she is at peace and is looking down on you all with smiles and love. God Bless .
Randy and Linda Kreitz
Linda/Randy Kreitz
October 24, 2015 | Winnipeg, MB
I have many fond memories of your mother/grandmother. Writing this, I can picture her in the kitchen telling me to pull up a place at the table and visit. For many years, going to Martin's house always meant a great snack, whether it was brought down to the basement or an invitation to join Merle and John at the kitchen table for food and conversation. Family was very important to her and it was apparent in the pride one saw in her eyes when she spoke of her children. My deepest...
Tom Flight
October 23, 2015