Today I
am remembering my cousin, Verna, who passed away on April 30. Whenever I think of Verna, I am immediately
back on the farm in Manitoba. A car has
driven into the yard and it’s wonderful to see the bright, sunny smiles of everyone
who climbs out. There’s Verna who is
good friends with my mom, there’s Verna’s jolly husband, Steve, and, hurrah . .
. I see Mike and Fred who are just a bit
younger than me!
From
Verna’s obituary:
Verna
was born in Seech, Manitoba, to Paul and Mary Stadnyk. The family homesteaded
in the Grandview area, where, at the age of 15, Verna married Steve Melnyk on
Nov.21,1942. In the spring of 1943 they
built their first log home.
I saw Verna and Steve's wedding picture once and have
never forgotten it – Verna was such an incredibly young, sweet, and beautiful bride.
From the obituary:
Verna
was proud of her Ukrainian heritage, which she carried on to her passing day.
She was famous for her Ukrainian Christmas suppers which consisted of 12
meatless dishes, and her Easter basket which she took to church and had
blessed.
After Verna and Steve retired, Bryan and I had a lovely visit with them in Brandon. The meal we were served was unforgettable!
Rest in peace, Cousin.
You will be missed and long-remembered.
