Elsie S. Onychuk

Elsie S. Onychuk, 92, passed away peacefully Saturday, Sept. 13, 2025, in Grosse Pointe Park. She was a cherished mother, grandmother and sister.

Elsie was born Feb. 21, 1933, in London, Ontario, Canada. Her early years in Canada instilled in her a lifelong love for her country, its culture and its people. Her academic pursuit led her to earn a master's degree in education, which was a testament to her dedication to learning and passion for sharing knowledge. Elsie's Christian faith was a cornerstone of her existence and guided her principles and actions throughout her life.

A virtuoso in her own right, Elsie's love for music was a melody that played throughout her life's journey. She was an accomplished pianist, touching many with her talent as a performer and teacher. Her voice, as beautiful and uplifting as her spirit, resonated in the hearts of those who had the pleasure of hearing her sing.

Elsie's professional life was marked by her significant contribution to education, notably teaching children of ambassadors at the United Nations International School in New York. Her influence extended beyond the classroom, as she was a beloved figure who brought music and joy to the lives of her students and their families.

Her generosity of spirit led her to volunteer at local hospitals, where she provided comfort and solace to those in need. Elsie's commitment to service was a reflection of her kind and loving nature, always seeking to make a positive impact on the world around her. She also was an avid reader and loved to volunteer at the Grosse Pointe Public Library.

In her personal life, Elsie cherished moments spent with her teacher friends, sharing stories and building lifelong bonds over their shared dedication to education. Her adventurous spirit took her on travels across the globe, including a memorable voyage on the RMS Queen Elizabeth, where she explored England and Europe and embraced new cultures and experiences.

Elsie was the heart of her family, leaving behind a legacy of love and kindness. She was a devoted mother to Gregory Onychuk and a doting grandmother to Yvette and Nadia. Though her brother, George, predeceased her, she always kept his memory alive in the stories she shared.

A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 2, at Grosse Pointe Memorial Church, 16 Lakeshore, Grosse Pointe Farms. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Grosse Pointe Library Foundation, 10 Kercheval, Grosse Pointe Farms, MI 48236.

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