Elvera Dumansky

Elvera Dumansky, age 75, of Sioux Falls, passed away peacefully at Dougherty Hospice House on February 4, 2023 from natural causes.
Elvera was born on December 20, 1947 to Victor and Emiliya Dumansky in Khmelnytskyi, Ukraine. She was the firstborn of 11 children. She grew up in difficult times following the Second World War. Her father was imprisoned by the Soviet regime for his faith in Jesus when Elvera was only three. Along with her mother and two younger siblings, they endured many hardships, including hunger, cold and uncertainty.
She enjoyed learning and finished high school in 1964 with good marks. She went on to become a seamstress and had a deep and lifelong love for her profession. She designed and sewed a number of dresses and other garments for her family and friends. She eventually became a sewing instructor at the local cultural center and taught many women the craft and love of sewing.
Elvera was a passionate reader and appreciated a variety of books, particularly books about spiritual growth. During times of Soviet oppression, knowing the worth and power of a good Christian book, she diligently copied by hand many of the books and passed them on to others. She liked to sing, had a nice voice and was a frequent lead singer at the local underground church.
In 1990, along with her parents and siblings, Elvera emigrated from Ukraine to the United States and deeply appreciated the freedoms granted by her new country. She continued her job as a seamstress, first working at Dixie's bridal store on the corner of 10th &Phillips. When the store closed, she opened her own business Alterations by Elvera. She was excellent at altering wedding dresses and passionate about making the brides look beautiful. She was known as one of the best seamstresses in Sioux Falls.
Elvera was very generous, although she lived a humble life. She continuously supported her family and friends in Ukraine when they needed it by sending them money and care packages with food and clothing.
Elvera loved the Lord deeply and boldly shared about Him with customers and friends. She devoted hours to prayer. She also loved to share many of her life stories with others.
Elvera was preceded in death by her parents, Victor and Emiliya Dumansky, brother Victor Dumansky, brother-in-law Valeri Chernatinski, and three other brothers who passed away in infancy. She is survived by brother Gennadiy (Mariya) Dumansky, Valentina (Anatoliy) Skots, Stacy Gadeliya, William (Jackie) Dumansky, Anne Dumansky, Irena Chernatinski, Nellie Ruzhitsky and numerous nieces and nephews.
Service will be held at Sioux Falls First, 6300 W. 41st Street, Sioux Falls, SD, 57106 at 10 am February 8, 2023. Viewing with family present will be at 9 am.