It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Joan Victoria Kowalewich (Baba Joan, Joanie), who left us peacefully surrounded by her children. She was predeceased by her beloved parents John and Alice Chitrenky and husband Bill.
Joan was the loving mother of Bryan (Cora), Michael (Nataliya) and Elena, proud Baba to Sasha, Carter and Brody, and a cherished sister to Bob (Margot) Chitrenky, Leona (Larry) Levchuk, aunt, and friend. Her warmth, humour, and wisdom will be remembered and missed by all who knew her.
Mom was a lifelong member and supporter of the Association of Ukrainian Canadians and was passionate about the development of the dance groups.
The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to the Victoria caregivers, nurses, and doctors who supported Joan in her final years. Your kindness and dedication to her care will never be forgotten.
A celebration of Joan’s life will be held at a later date and will be shared shortly. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Joan’s memory to Victoria Hospitals Foundation (Care Teams) or Vancouver AUUC .
She leaves behind a legacy of love, resilience, and dedication to family. Joan will forever be in our hearts.
Condolences may be offered to the family below.
McCall Gardens
www.mccallgardens.com
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James Griffiths
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Ted Kardash Though I first met Joan many years ago when we were both students in Kiev, Ukraine, it was not until she met/married my childhood friend, Bill, that I was given the opportunity to really know her and to discover what a wonderful fine person she was.
I can say with respect and kindness that Billy was not always the easiest person to be around. So I was amazed when I saw Joanie exhibit incredible patience, understanding, and humor in dealing with my old pal. She loved him and he loved her. “She is the love of my life”, he once told me.
Though our home cities were far apart we were able to visit one another regularly over the years. I experienced Joanie’s warmth as a hostess as well as her kindness and humor. And her great cooking! I appreciated her ability to accept others for who they were. I appreciated our discussions that ranged from the personal to topics of universal interest.
I am so thankful that our paths crossed again and that we got to spend time together. Thank you, Joan!
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AUUC The National Committee of the Association of United Ukrainian Canadians would like to express our deepest sympathy for the loss of your mother and grandmother. As a long time member of the AUUC, we would like to acknowledge the contributions Joan has made to the AUUC as the President of the Vancouver Branch and in her involvement with the Dovbush School of Ukrainian Dance as the long-time director. Those dedicated members who have worked tirelessly to help us preserve and enhance our Ukrainian culture need to be acknowledged and celebrated. Without our members and their dedication to the AUUC we would not be able to continue to be a cultural voice in Canada. The continued success of the Dovbush is due to the dedicated work of members such as Joan.
On behalf of the AUUC please know that Joan will be remembered by all those who worked along side her. Whenever the Dovbush performs your mother will be part of the on going legacy for generations to come.
May music, song and dance be in your hearts as remember your beloved mother.
In memory of Joan we have donated $100 to the AUUC Vancouver as per your wishes.
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Pauline Auld (Chitrenky) So sad to hear of the passing of cousin Joanie. Sincere condolences to cousins Bunny and Bob, her children, grandchildren and friends. May memories of her forever live on.
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Anne Semkuley My deepest sympathies to hear of Joan’s passing. She was a driving force in the success of organizing and putting dance routines together for all the concerts performed at the hall and out of the hall also. I know she will be dearly missed by family and all those who knew Joan. My Sincere Condolences Anne Semkuley
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Randy Dickin I have so many fond memories of Joan. I met her first in 1987 during our dance seminar and tour of the USSR. She was literally part of my indoctrination into the AUUC and the Ukrainian dance world. For that I will forever be grateful. Bryan, Micheal, and Elena – I’m so sorry for your loss. Your mom was a great lady and she will be missed.
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Adam Rabiner Dear Kowalwich family,
I am sorry for your loss. I will never forget the days of hanging around at the Kowalewich compund in Grouse Woods and at the Ukrainian hall. Joan was always so hospitable, kind, fun, and motherly (and occasionally even stern, though she had every right to be considering all of our shenanigans:).
I will miss her and always cherish all of the good times I had in her company.
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Caitlynn When I saw the picture of Joan here, I noticed how familiar and comforting it was to see her beautiful smiling face. She was so important to me. I hadn’t seen her for a while, but I often told stories about her and the old Dovbush days with friends. I will miss her so much. I’m so sad that we have all lost such a wonderful person. Love to her family. Xox
I was saddened to hear of Joan’s passing, both because of my own affections for her and because I know how much she is loved by people I love.
Joan was a steady and supportive force for me during my adolescence, at a time when I was struggling to figure out who I was. I’ll always be grateful for her influence on my life and community.
My deepest and heartfelt condolences to the Kowalewich family for your loss. Joan will not be forgotten.