JOHANNA (JENNIE) BOYKO

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JOHANNA (JENNIE) BOYKO Johanna (Jennie) Boyko (nee Malenchak) passed away peacefully, surrounded by the love of her family, at the Central Okanagan Hospice House in Kelowna on Friday, February 7, 2014. Jennie was born on July 12, 1926 and grew up in Fisher Branch, MB. Her parents, Adam and Katherine, were Polish immigrant settlers. Jennie attended St. Mary's Academy and earned her Masters of Social Work from the University of Manitoba. Jennie's passion for others and her love of families led to her lifetime career in social work which she passionately loved, and ultimately to her role as Executive Director of Child and Family Services of Winnipeg West. Her belief was that every person should be healthy both physically and mentally, and should be connected to nature and the earth, as well as to family and friends. Jennie could not have pursued her career without the support and love of her husband Michael. He was so proud of her and her achievements! Together they enjoyed building their home, raising their family, travelling to Spain and Cuba, and retiring to Peachland in the Okanagan. Jennie wanted to try new adventures and experience the beautiful Okanagan environment, so she began sketching and experimenting with watercolours. Jennie joined the artists' group in Peachland and she created many amazing works that embody the incredible beauty of the area, as well as the power of the prairie skies and sunsets. Jennie was predeceased by her husband Michael, her son Michael Lorn (Carol), and her daughter-in-law Sharon. She is survived by her children, Murray Gregg (Deb), Lorenda (Larry), and Vince, and her grandchildren Ben, Scott, Briar, Tiffaney, Bevin, Lia, Thomas, and Anthony, all of whom she was very proud. She is also survived by her brother Ted (Mary) and sister Vicky, as well as many nieces and nephews. Please join us to celebrate Jennie's life on Tuesday, May 20, 2014 at Bel Acres Golf and Country Club from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, you may make a donation in Jennie's memory to a charity of your choice.

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on May 10, 2014