Lillian Helen Usick

October 4, 1927 ~ April 19, 2024 (age 96)

Lillian Helen Usick (nee Bachewich) was born in 1927 at Ozerna and passed away on April 19, 2024 at the Minnedosa Health Centre at the age of 96 years.

Lillian grew up on the family farm and at 16 she left with her sister Florence for Toronto to work in a factory to support the war effort. When she returned home for what was to be a short visit, she met Steve and they quickly married. Together they raised three children – Brian, Wendal, and Sheila – on their family farm in Harrison municipality.

Lillian was a productive homemaker and cook. Her homemade chicken noodle soup could cure all that ails you and her Ukrainian dishes were rich and delicious. Grandma tended to large gardens on the farm, and she later maintained a garden in her backyard once she and Steve retired in Minnedosa. She planted her last garden when she was 94, regretfully slowed down by her diminishing vision.

Lillian lived for her family. She never fully recovered losing her daughter Sheila in 2007. Grandma took much joy in her grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchilden. Lillian maintained friendships, in particular with her dear friend Evelyn Kowaluk. She also cherished pets including dog Ariel and cat Kellie. These furry companions provided her with comfort especially after the loss of her daughter and later her husband Steve.

Lillian remained fiercely independent, living in her own home receiving regular homecare only in the last few years. At 96 her memory was astonishing. She was aware of the goings on of her family as well as what was happening in town and the broader world. Grandma was a quick wit and enjoyed sharing a laugh. Her clear green eyes would light up when discussing her grandchildren or sharing a funny story.

Lillian is survived by her sons Brian (Arlette) and Wendal (Sheila) and her grandchildren: Brandy Usick, Brytt Yurechuk, Brooke Usick, Jackie Usick, Faith Usick and Hope Usick; and her great-grandchildren Breanna (George Sinclair), Jessie Yurechuk, Ambrose Streit, and Blakely Usick and great-great-grandchildren Ryder and Rayna Sinclair. As well as her brother Bob Bachewich, sisters-in-law Olivia Bachewich and Eleanor Mosher, and many nieces and nephews.

Lillian was predeceased by her husband Steve and daughter Sheila, her parents John and Mary Bachewich, brother Andrew Bachewich, sisters Ina Bachewich, Florence Usick, Sylvia Hunt, Elizabeth Gregorash, Ruth Usick and brothers-in-law Adam and Lawrence Usick and Bob Mosher.

Thank you to the homecare staff who provided care and companionship and to the staff at the Minnedosa hospital. Thanks as well to Minnedosa Coop and RD’s on Main for helping Lillian maintain her independence through food and meal deliveries. Donations gratefully received by Heart & Stroke Foundation of Manitoba 1379 Kenaston Blvd., Winnipeg MB R3P 2T5

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