ALDONA BALCIUNAS

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ALDONA BALCIUNAS It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, Auntie, Mama B. and Mrs. B., Aldona Balciunas, on September 28, 2016. Mourning her loss are her children, Vida Balciunas, of Vancouver, BC, Rennie (Heidi) Balciunas and Daniel (Savitrah) Balciunas; and her beloved grandchildren, Carleigh and Brendan, of Winnipeg, MB. Predeceased by her parents, Jadvyga and Joseph Mikalauskas, husband Alphonse Balciunas, daughter-in-law Cindy Balciunas and dear friend Ed Woodward. She also leaves behind cousin Norm Stapon and family; sister-in-law Danute (Chester) Jankauskas; lifelong friends, Liuda Stuikys and Irena Vibrys, of Toronto, ON, as well as many cherished friends and extended family in Winnipeg, across Canada, the United States and in Lithuania. Aldona Aniceta Balciunas (née Mikalauskas) was born May 12, 1933 in Klaipeda, Lithuania. On October 8, 1944, at the age of 11, she and her parents were forced to flee Lithuania. With bombs going off in the distance and the front raging nearby, leaving all their belongings, they crossed through Poland, into Austria on the last known train able to leave the area. After spending four years in a DP (Displaced Persons) camp, they were able to immigrate to Canada, arriving at Pier 21 in Halifax. Her friendships with Luida and Irena were the blessings born from those hard days. Meeting Luida on the train when they fled and Irena in the DP camp, it was a bond that never broke. They moved to Winnipeg in 1948, after the generous sponsorship of the Stapon family. She met and married Alphonse Balciunas in 1953 and together they started a family. Blessed with three children, she became a homemaker and was an active member of St. Casimirs Lithuanian Church (from its inception to its close in 1999, after the passing of Monsignor J. Bertasius). As well, for many years (1972 to 1991), she actively supported and worked at the Lithuanian Folklorama Pavillion, honouring her beloved homeland. Aldona was charismatic, kind, generous and had an amazing sense of humour. She loved entertaining, was happy when there was music, dancing, good food and good friends around. She had an affinity for monkeys and she adored travel, and it meant so much to her that she was able to return to Lithuania four times. She loved to tell the story of how her father, Joseph, always the entrepreneur, called and asked her to come over one night in 1957 to discuss a new possibility. Her father wanted to buy a small corner bakery that he had found. It was run down and in need of investment and ideas. With her mother in the hospital, Aldona made the decision with her father to go ahead and take the chance with the little savings that they had. Her husband Alphonse joined in on the new family business and they all collectively nursed the little corner business back to life, and Natural Bakery was born. Aldona remained so proud that four generations later, that business is growing and thriving, and is now the biggest producer of rye bread in Western Canada. More so, even until recently, she was the best and most loyal customer at the retail store, often using her lifelong and well earned "family discount". In her later years, she found a new home at Concordia Village II. There she had eight years of good people, a full social calendar, activities, family dinners, her 80th birthday party (the party to end all parties!) and with the support and love of her dear companions, Carina Oddidson and Tasan Halliburton, and dear friends, Mr. Ed Woodward and Mrs. Epp, life was full. Sincere appreciation to the residents of Concordia Village, all of you who make it the special place it is. Our gratitude always to the ER and 3rd floor staff at Concordia Hospital for all their on-going care and support. To Dr. Sawchuk and the WRHA home team members, with your help we were able to keep Aldona comfortable and happy at home for as long as she could be. That was a priceless gift and we are all very grateful. On September 28, at her bedside there was family, chatter, laughter, song, prayer and then tears. We like to think she enjoyed every minute of it, as Mom's wish to be surrounded by love in her final hours was granted. Prayers will be offered at 7:00 p.m. on October 5, 2016 at Korban Funeral Chapel, 907 Main St., Winnipeg. Celebration of Life and mass will be held at Holy Redeemer Roman Catholic Parish, 264 Donwood Dr., October 6, 2016 at 10:30 a.m., with Fr. Arockiadoss Savurimuthu officiating. A reception will be held immediately after, with interment to follow at All Saints Cemetery, 4535 Main St., West St. Paul. Pallbearers will be Rennie Balciunas, Danny Balciunas, Brendan Balciunas, Norm Stapon, Marijus Timmerman and Al Cesiunas. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Heart and Stroke Foundation, Winnipeg Kidney Foundation, MS Society or CancerCare Manitoba. Condolences for the family may be offered online at www.korbanchapel.com. KORBAN FUNERAL CHAPEL 204-956-2193 www.korbanchapel.com
Publish Date: Oct 5, 2016

ALDONA BALCIUNAS It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, Auntie, Mama B. and Mrs. B., Aldona Balciunas, on September 28, 2016. Mourning her loss are her children, Vida Balciunas, of Vancouver, BC, Rennie (Heidi) Balciunas and Daniel (Savitrah) Balciunas; and her beloved grandchildren, Carleigh and Brendan, of Winnipeg, MB. Predeceased by her parents, Jadvyga and Joseph Mikalauskas, husband Alphonse Balciunas, daughter-in-law Cindy Balciunas and dear friend Ed Woodward. She also leaves behind cousin Norm Stapon and family; sister-in-law Danute (Chester) Jankauskas; lifelong friends, Liuda Stuikys and Irena Vibrys, of Toronto, ON, as well as many cherished friends and extended family in Winnipeg, across Canada, the United States and in Lithuania. Aldona Aniceta Balciunas (née Mikalauskas) was born May 12, 1933 in Klaipeda, Lithuania. On October 8, 1944, at the age of 11, she and her parents were forced to flee Lithuania. With bombs going off in the distance and the front raging nearby, leaving all their belongings, they crossed through Poland, into Austria on the last known train able to leave the area. After spending four years in a DP (Displaced Persons) camp, they were able to immigrate to Canada, arriving at Pier 21 in Halifax. Her friendships with Luida and Irena were the blessings born from those hard days. Meeting Luida on the train when they fled and Irena in the DP camp, it was a bond that never broke. They moved to Winnipeg in 1948, after the generous sponsorship of the Stapon family. She met and married Alphonse Balciunas in 1953 and together they started a family. Blessed with three children, she became a homemaker and was an active member of St. Casimirs Lithuanian Church (from its inception to its close in 1999, after the passing of Monsignor J. Bertasius). As well, for many years (1972 to 1991), she actively supported and worked at the Lithuanian Folklorama Pavillion, honouring her beloved homeland. Aldona was charismatic, kind, generous and had an amazing sense of humour. She loved entertaining, was happy when there was music, dancing, good food and good friends around. She had an affinity for monkeys and she adored travel, and it meant so much to her that she was able to return to Lithuania four times. She loved to tell the story of how her father, Joseph, always the entrepreneur, called and asked her to come over one night in 1957 to discuss a new possibility. Her father wanted to buy a small corner bakery that he had found. It was run down and in need of investment and ideas. With her mother in the hospital, Aldona made the decision with her father to go ahead and take the chance with the little savings that they had. Her husband Alphonse joined in on the new family business and they all collectively nursed the little corner business back to life, and Natural Bakery was born. Aldona remained so proud that four generations later, that business is growing and thriving, and is now the biggest producer of rye bread in Western Canada. More so, even until recently, she was the best and most loyal customer at the retail store, often using her lifelong and well earned "family discount". In her later years, she found a new home at Concordia Village II. There she had eight years of good people, a full social calendar, activities, family dinners, her 80th birthday party (the party to end all parties!) and with the support and love of her dear companions, Carina Oddidson and Tasan Halliburton, and dear friends, Mr. Ed Woodward and Mrs. Epp, life was full. Sincere appreciation to the residents of Concordia Village, all of you who make it the special place it is. Our gratitude always to the ER and 3rd floor staff at Concordia Hospital for all their on-going care and support. To Dr. Sawchuk and the WRHA home team members, with your help we were able to keep Aldona comfortable and happy at home for as long as she could be. That was a priceless gift and we are all very grateful. On September 28, at her bedside there was family, chatter, laughter, song, prayer and then tears. We like to think she enjoyed every minute of it, as Mom's wish to be surrounded by love in her final hours was granted. Prayers will be offered at 7:00 p.m. on October 5, 2016 at Korban Funeral Chapel, 907 Main St., Winnipeg. Celebration of Life and mass will be held at Holy Redeemer Roman Catholic Parish, 264 Donwood Dr., October 6, 2016 at 10:30 a.m., with Fr. Arockiadoss Savurimuthu officiating. A reception will be held immediately after, with interment to follow at All Saints Cemetery, 4535 Main St., West St. Paul. Pallbearers will be Rennie Balciunas, Danny Balciunas, Brendan Balciunas, Norm Stapon, Marijus Timmerman and Al Cesiunas. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Heart and Stroke Foundation, Winnipeg Kidney Foundation, MS Society or CancerCare Manitoba. Condolences for the family may be offered online at www.korbanchapel.com. KORBAN FUNERAL CHAPEL 204-956-2193 www.korbanchapel.com
Publish Date: Oct 5, 2016

ALDONA BALCIUNAS It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, Auntie, Mama B. and Mrs. B., Aldona Balciunas, on September 28, 2016. Mourning her loss are her children, Vida Balciunas, of Vancouver, BC, Rennie (Heidi) Balciunas and Daniel (Savitrah) Balciunas; and her beloved grandchildren, Carleigh and Brendan, of Winnipeg, MB. Predeceased by her parents, Jadvyga and Joseph Mikalauskas, husband Alphonse Balciunas, daughter-in-law Cindy Balciunas and dear friend Ed Woodward. She also leaves behind cousin Norm Stapon and family; sister-in-law Danute (Chester) Jankauskas; lifelong friends, Liuda Stuikys and Irena Vibrys, of Toronto, ON, as well as many cherished friends and extended family in Winnipeg, across Canada, the United States and in Lithuania. Aldona Aniceta Balciunas (née Mikalauskas) was born May 12, 1933 in Klaipeda, Lithuania. On October 8, 1944, at the age of 11, she and her parents were forced to flee Lithuania. With bombs going off in the distance and the front raging nearby, leaving all their belongings, they crossed through Poland, into Austria on the last known train able to leave the area. After spending four years in a DP (Displaced Persons) camp, they were able to immigrate to Canada, arriving at Pier 21 in Halifax. Her friendships with Luida and Irena were the blessings born from those hard days. Meeting Luida on the train when they fled and Irena in the DP camp, it was a bond that never broke. They moved to Winnipeg in 1948, after the generous sponsorship of the Stapon family. She met and married Alphonse Balciunas in 1953 and together they started a family. Blessed with three children, she became a homemaker and was an active member of St. Casimirs Lithuanian Church (from its inception to its close in 1999, after the passing of Monsignor J. Bertasius). As well, for many years (1972 to 1991), she actively supported and worked at the Lithuanian Folklorama Pavillion, honouring her beloved homeland. Aldona was charismatic, kind, generous and had an amazing sense of humour. She loved entertaining, was happy when there was music, dancing, good food and good friends around. She had an affinity for monkeys and she adored travel, and it meant so much to her that she was able to return to Lithuania four times. She loved to tell the story of how her father, Joseph, always the entrepreneur, called and asked her to come over one night in 1957 to discuss a new possibility. Her father wanted to buy a small corner bakery that he had found. It was run down and in need of investment and ideas. With her mother in the hospital, Aldona made the decision with her father to go ahead and take the chance with the little savings that they had. Her husband Alphonse joined in on the new family business and they all collectively nursed the little corner business back to life, and Natural Bakery was born. Aldona remained so proud that four generations later, that business is growing and thriving, and is now the biggest producer of rye bread in Western Canada. More so, even until recently, she was the best and most loyal customer at the retail store, often using her lifelong and well earned "family discount". In her later years, she found a new home at Concordia Village II. There she had eight years of good people, a full social calendar, activities, family dinners, her 80th birthday party (the party to end all parties!) and with the support and love of her dear companions, Carina Oddidson and Tasan Halliburton, and dear friends, Mr. Ed Woodward and Mrs. Epp, life was full. Sincere appreciation to the residents of Concordia Village, all of you who make it the special place it is. Our gratitude always to the ER and 3rd floor staff at Concordia Hospital for all their on-going care and support. To Dr. Sawchuk and the WRHA home team members, with your help we were able to keep Aldona comfortable and happy at home for as long as she could be. That was a priceless gift and we are all very grateful. On September 28, at her bedside there was family, chatter, laughter, song, prayer and then tears. We like to think she enjoyed every minute of it, as Mom's wish to be surrounded by love in her final hours was granted. Prayers will be offered at 7:00 p.m. on October 5, 2016 at Korban Funeral Chapel, 907 Main St., Winnipeg. Celebration of Life and mass will be held at Holy Redeemer Roman Catholic Parish, 264 Donwood Dr., October 6, 2016 at 10:30 a.m., with Fr. Arockiadoss Savurimuthu officiating. A reception will be held immediately after, with interment to follow at All Saints Cemetery, 4535 Main St., West St. Paul. Pallbearers will be Rennie Balciunas, Danny Balciunas, Brendan Balciunas, Norm Stapon, Marijus Timmerman and Al Cesiunas. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Heart and Stroke Foundation, Winnipeg Kidney Foundation, MS Society or CancerCare Manitoba. Condolences for the family may be offered online at www.korbanchapel.com. KORBAN FUNERAL CHAPEL 204-956-2193 www.korbanchapel.com
Publish Date: Oct 5, 2016

ALDONA BALCIUNAS It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, Auntie, Mama B. and Mrs. B., Aldona Balciunas, on September 28, 2016. Mourning her loss are her children, Vida Balciunas, of Vancouver, BC, Rennie (Heidi) Balciunas and Daniel (Savitrah) Balciunas; and her beloved grandchildren, Carleigh and Brendan, of Winnipeg, MB. Predeceased by her parents, Jadvyga and Joseph Mikalauskas, husband Alphonse Balciunas, daughter-in-law Cindy Balciunas and dear friend Ed Woodward. She also leaves behind cousin Norm Stapon and family; sister-in-law Danute (Chester) Jankauskas; lifelong friends, Liuda Stuikys and Irena Vibrys, of Toronto, ON, as well as many cherished friends and extended family in Winnipeg, across Canada, the United States and in Lithuania. Aldona Aniceta Balciunas (née Mikalauskas) was born May 12, 1933 in Klaipeda, Lithuania. On October 8, 1944, at the age of 11, she and her parents were forced to flee Lithuania. With bombs going off in the distance and the front raging nearby, leaving all their belongings, they crossed through Poland, into Austria on the last known train able to leave the area. After spending four years in a DP (Displaced Persons) camp, they were able to immigrate to Canada, arriving at Pier 21 in Halifax. Her friendships with Luida and Irena were the blessings born from those hard days. Meeting Luida on the train when they fled and Irena in the DP camp, it was a bond that never broke. They moved to Winnipeg in 1948, after the generous sponsorship of the Stapon family. She met and married Alphonse Balciunas in 1953 and together they started a family. Blessed with three children, she became a homemaker and was an active member of St. Casimirs Lithuanian Church (from its inception to its close in 1999, after the passing of Monsignor J. Bertasius). As well, for many years (1972 to 1991), she actively supported and worked at the Lithuanian Folklorama Pavillion, honouring her beloved homeland. Aldona was charismatic, kind, generous and had an amazing sense of humour. She loved entertaining, was happy when there was music, dancing, good food and good friends around. She had an affinity for monkeys and she adored travel, and it meant so much to her that she was able to return to Lithuania four times. She loved to tell the story of how her father, Joseph, always the entrepreneur, called and asked her to come over one night in 1957 to discuss a new possibility. Her father wanted to buy a small corner bakery that he had found. It was run down and in need of investment and ideas. With her mother in the hospital, Aldona made the decision with her father to go ahead and take the chance with the little savings that they had. Her husband Alphonse joined in on the new family business and they all collectively nursed the little corner business back to life, and Natural Bakery was born. Aldona remained so proud that four generations later, that business is growing and thriving, and is now the biggest producer of rye bread in Western Canada. More so, even until recently, she was the best and most loyal customer at the retail store, often using her lifelong and well earned "family discount". In her later years, she found a new home at Concordia Village II. There she had eight years of good people, a full social calendar, activities, family dinners, her 80th birthday party (the party to end all parties!) and with the support and love of her dear companions, Carina Oddidson and Tasan Halliburton, and dear friends, Mr. Ed Woodward and Mrs. Epp, life was full. Sincere appreciation to the residents of Concordia Village, all of you who make it the special place it is. Our gratitude always to the ER and 3rd floor staff at Concordia Hospital for all their on-going care and support. To Dr. Sawchuk and the WRHA home team members, with your help we were able to keep Aldona comfortable and happy at home for as long as she could be. That was a priceless gift and we are all very grateful. On September 28, at her bedside there was family, chatter, laughter, song, prayer and then tears. We like to think she enjoyed every minute of it, as Mom's wish to be surrounded by love in her final hours was granted. Prayers will be offered at 7:00 p.m. on October 5, 2016 at Korban Funeral Chapel, 907 Main St., Winnipeg. Celebration of Life and mass will be held at Holy Redeemer Roman Catholic Parish, 264 Donwood Dr., October 6, 2016 at 10:30 a.m., with Fr. Arockiadoss Savurimuthu officiating. A reception will be held immediately after, with interment to follow at All Saints Cemetery, 4535 Main St., West St. Paul. Pallbearers will be Rennie Balciunas, Danny Balciunas, Brendan Balciunas, Norm Stapon, Marijus Timmerman and Al Cesiunas. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Heart and Stroke Foundation, Winnipeg Kidney Foundation, MS Society or CancerCare Manitoba. Condolences for the family may be offered online at www.korbanchapel.com. KORBAN FUNERAL CHAPEL 204-956-2193 www.korbanchapel.com
Publish Date: Oct 5, 2016

ALDONA BALCIUNAS It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, Auntie, Mama B. and Mrs. B., Aldona Balciunas, on September 28, 2016. Mourning her loss are her children, Vida Balciunas, of Vancouver, BC, Rennie (Heidi) Balciunas and Daniel (Savitrah) Balciunas; and her beloved grandchildren, Carleigh and Brendan, of Winnipeg, MB. Predeceased by her parents, Jadvyga and Joseph Mikalauskas, husband Alphonse Balciunas, daughter-in-law Cindy Balciunas and dear friend Ed Woodward. She also leaves behind cousin Norm Stapon and family; sister-in-law Danute (Chester) Jankauskas; lifelong friends, Liuda Stuikys and Irena Vibrys, of Toronto, ON, as well as many cherished friends and extended family in Winnipeg, across Canada, the United States and in Lithuania. Aldona Aniceta Balciunas (née Mikalauskas) was born May 12, 1933 in Klaipeda, Lithuania. On October 8, 1944, at the age of 11, she and her parents were forced to flee Lithuania. With bombs going off in the distance and the front raging nearby, leaving all their belongings, they crossed through Poland, into Austria on the last known train able to leave the area. After spending four years in a DP (Displaced Persons) camp, they were able to immigrate to Canada, arriving at Pier 21 in Halifax. Her friendships with Luida and Irena were the blessings born from those hard days. Meeting Luida on the train when they fled and Irena in the DP camp, it was a bond that never broke. They moved to Winnipeg in 1948, after the generous sponsorship of the Stapon family. She met and married Alphonse Balciunas in 1953 and together they started a family. Blessed with three children, she became a homemaker and was an active member of St. Casimirs Lithuanian Church (from its inception to its close in 1999, after the passing of Monsignor J. Bertasius). As well, for many years (1972 to 1991), she actively supported and worked at the Lithuanian Folklorama Pavillion, honouring her beloved homeland. Aldona was charismatic, kind, generous and had an amazing sense of humour. She loved entertaining, was happy when there was music, dancing, good food and good friends around. She had an affinity for monkeys and she adored travel, and it meant so much to her that she was able to return to Lithuania four times. She loved to tell the story of how her father, Joseph, always the entrepreneur, called and asked her to come over one night in 1957 to discuss a new possibility. Her father wanted to buy a small corner bakery that he had found. It was run down and in need of investment and ideas. With her mother in the hospital, Aldona made the decision with her father to go ahead and take the chance with the little savings that they had. Her husband Alphonse joined in on the new family business and they all collectively nursed the little corner business back to life, and Natural Bakery was born. Aldona remained so proud that four generations later, that business is growing and thriving, and is now the biggest producer of rye bread in Western Canada. More so, even until recently, she was the best and most loyal customer at the retail store, often using her lifelong and well earned "family discount". In her later years, she found a new home at Concordia Village II. There she had eight years of good people, a full social calendar, activities, family dinners, her 80th birthday party (the party to end all parties!) and with the support and love of her dear companions, Carina Oddidson and Tasan Halliburton, and dear friends, Mr. Ed Woodward and Mrs. Epp, life was full. Sincere appreciation to the residents of Concordia Village, all of you who make it the special place it is. Our gratitude always to the ER and 3rd floor staff at Concordia Hospital for all their on-going care and support. To Dr. Sawchuk and the WRHA home team members, with your help we were able to keep Aldona comfortable and happy at home for as long as she could be. That was a priceless gift and we are all very grateful. On September 28, at her bedside there was family, chatter, laughter, song, prayer and then tears. We like to think she enjoyed every minute of it, as Mom's wish to be surrounded by love in her final hours was granted. Prayers will be offered at 7:00 p.m. on October 5, 2016 at Korban Funeral Chapel, 907 Main St., Winnipeg. Celebration of Life and mass will be held at Holy Redeemer Roman Catholic Parish, 264 Donwood Dr., October 6, 2016 at 10:30 a.m., with Fr. Arockiadoss Savurimuthu officiating. A reception will be held immediately after, with interment to follow at All Saints Cemetery, 4535 Main St., West St. Paul. Pallbearers will be Rennie Balciunas, Danny Balciunas, Brendan Balciunas, Norm Stapon, Marijus Timmerman and Al Cesiunas. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Heart and Stroke Foundation, Winnipeg Kidney Foundation, MS Society or CancerCare Manitoba. Condolences for the family may be offered online at www.korbanchapel.com. KORBAN FUNERAL CHAPEL 204-956-2193 www.korbanchapel.com
Publish Date: Oct 5, 2016

ALDONA BALCIUNAS It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, Auntie, Mama B. and Mrs. B., Aldona Balciunas, on September 28, 2016. Mourning her loss are her children, Vida Balciunas, of Vancouver, BC, Rennie (Heidi) Balciunas and Daniel (Savitrah) Balciunas; and her beloved grandchildren, Carleigh and Brendan, of Winnipeg, MB. Predeceased by her parents, Jadvyga and Joseph Mikalauskas, husband Alphonse Balciunas, daughter-in-law Cindy Balciunas and dear friend Ed Woodward. She also leaves behind cousin Norm Stapon and family; sister-in-law Danute (Chester) Jankauskas; lifelong friends, Liuda Stuikys and Irena Vibrys, of Toronto, ON, as well as many cherished friends and extended family in Winnipeg, across Canada, the United States and in Lithuania. Aldona Aniceta Balciunas (née Mikalauskas) was born May 12, 1933 in Klaipeda, Lithuania. On October 8, 1944, at the age of 11, she and her parents were forced to flee Lithuania. With bombs going off in the distance and the front raging nearby, leaving all their belongings, they crossed through Poland, into Austria on the last known train able to leave the area. After spending four years in a DP (Displaced Persons) camp, they were able to immigrate to Canada, arriving at Pier 21 in Halifax. Her friendships with Luida and Irena were the blessings born from those hard days. Meeting Luida on the train when they fled and Irena in the DP camp, it was a bond that never broke. They moved to Winnipeg in 1948, after the generous sponsorship of the Stapon family. She met and married Alphonse Balciunas in 1953 and together they started a family. Blessed with three children, she became a homemaker and was an active member of St. Casimirs Lithuanian Church (from its inception to its close in 1999, after the passing of Monsignor J. Bertasius). As well, for many years (1972 to 1991), she actively supported and worked at the Lithuanian Folklorama Pavillion, honouring her beloved homeland. Aldona was charismatic, kind, generous and had an amazing sense of humour. She loved entertaining, was happy when there was music, dancing, good food and good friends around. She had an affinity for monkeys and she adored travel, and it meant so much to her that she was able to return to Lithuania four times. She loved to tell the story of how her father, Joseph, always the entrepreneur, called and asked her to come over one night in 1957 to discuss a new possibility. Her father wanted to buy a small corner bakery that he had found. It was run down and in need of investment and ideas. With her mother in the hospital, Aldona made the decision with her father to go ahead and take the chance with the little savings that they had. Her husband Alphonse joined in on the new family business and they all collectively nursed the little corner business back to life, and Natural Bakery was born. Aldona remained so proud that four generations later, that business is growing and thriving, and is now the biggest producer of rye bread in Western Canada. More so, even until recently, she was the best and most loyal customer at the retail store, often using her lifelong and well earned "family discount". In her later years, she found a new home at Concordia Village II. There she had eight years of good people, a full social calendar, activities, family dinners, her 80th birthday party (the party to end all parties!) and with the support and love of her dear companions, Carina Oddidson and Tasan Halliburton, and dear friends, Mr. Ed Woodward and Mrs. Epp, life was full. Sincere appreciation to the residents of Concordia Village, all of you who make it the special place it is. Our gratitude always to the ER and 3rd floor staff at Concordia Hospital for all their on-going care and support. To Dr. Sawchuk and the WRHA home team members, with your help we were able to keep Aldona comfortable and happy at home for as long as she could be. That was a priceless gift and we are all very grateful. On September 28, at her bedside there was family, chatter, laughter, song, prayer and then tears. We like to think she enjoyed every minute of it, as Mom's wish to be surrounded by love in her final hours was granted. Prayers will be offered at 7:00 p.m. on October 5, 2016 at Korban Funeral Chapel, 907 Main St., Winnipeg. Celebration of Life and mass will be held at Holy Redeemer Roman Catholic Parish, 264 Donwood Dr., October 6, 2016 at 10:30 a.m., with Fr. Arockiadoss Savurimuthu officiating. A reception will be held immediately after, with interment to follow at All Saints Cemetery, 4535 Main St., West St. Paul. Pallbearers will be Rennie Balciunas, Danny Balciunas, Brendan Balciunas, Norm Stapon, Marijus Timmerman and Al Cesiunas. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Heart and Stroke Foundation, Winnipeg Kidney Foundation, MS Society or CancerCare Manitoba. Condolences for the family may be offered online at www.korbanchapel.com. KORBAN FUNERAL CHAPEL 204-956-2193 www.korbanchapel.com
Publish Date: Oct 5, 2016

ALDONA BALCIUNAS It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, Auntie, Mama B. and Mrs. B., Aldona Balciunas, on September 28, 2016. Mourning her loss are her children, Vida Balciunas, of Vancouver, BC, Rennie (Heidi) Balciunas and Daniel (Savitrah) Balciunas; and her beloved grandchildren, Carleigh and Brendan, of Winnipeg, MB. Predeceased by her parents, Jadvyga and Joseph Mikalauskas, husband Alphonse Balciunas, daughter-in-law Cindy Balciunas and dear friend Ed Woodward. She also leaves behind cousin Norm Stapon and family; sister-in-law Danute (Chester) Jankauskas; lifelong friends, Liuda Stuikys and Irena Vibrys, of Toronto, ON, as well as many cherished friends and extended family in Winnipeg, across Canada, the United States and in Lithuania. Aldona Aniceta Balciunas (née Mikalauskas) was born May 12, 1933 in Klaipeda, Lithuania. On October 8, 1944, at the age of 11, she and her parents were forced to flee Lithuania. With bombs going off in the distance and the front raging nearby, leaving all their belongings, they crossed through Poland, into Austria on the last known train able to leave the area. After spending four years in a DP (Displaced Persons) camp, they were able to immigrate to Canada, arriving at Pier 21 in Halifax. Her friendships with Luida and Irena were the blessings born from those hard days. Meeting Luida on the train when they fled and Irena in the DP camp, it was a bond that never broke. They moved to Winnipeg in 1948, after the generous sponsorship of the Stapon family. She met and married Alphonse Balciunas in 1953 and together they started a family. Blessed with three children, she became a homemaker and was an active member of St. Casimirs Lithuanian Church (from its inception to its close in 1999, after the passing of Monsignor J. Bertasius). As well, for many years (1972 to 1991), she actively supported and worked at the Lithuanian Folklorama Pavillion, honouring her beloved homeland. Aldona was charismatic, kind, generous and had an amazing sense of humour. She loved entertaining, was happy when there was music, dancing, good food and good friends around. She had an affinity for monkeys and she adored travel, and it meant so much to her that she was able to return to Lithuania four times. She loved to tell the story of how her father, Joseph, always the entrepreneur, called and asked her to come over one night in 1957 to discuss a new possibility. Her father wanted to buy a small corner bakery that he had found. It was run down and in need of investment and ideas. With her mother in the hospital, Aldona made the decision with her father to go ahead and take the chance with the little savings that they had. Her husband Alphonse joined in on the new family business and they all collectively nursed the little corner business back to life, and Natural Bakery was born. Aldona remained so proud that four generations later, that business is growing and thriving, and is now the biggest producer of rye bread in Western Canada. More so, even until recently, she was the best and most loyal customer at the retail store, often using her lifelong and well earned "family discount". In her later years, she found a new home at Concordia Village II. There she had eight years of good people, a full social calendar, activities, family dinners, her 80th birthday party (the party to end all parties!) and with the support and love of her dear companions, Carina Oddidson and Tasan Halliburton, and dear friends, Mr. Ed Woodward and Mrs. Epp, life was full. Sincere appreciation to the residents of Concordia Village, all of you who make it the special place it is. Our gratitude always to the ER and 3rd floor staff at Concordia Hospital for all their on-going care and support. To Dr. Sawchuk and the WRHA home team members, with your help we were able to keep Aldona comfortable and happy at home for as long as she could be. That was a priceless gift and we are all very grateful. On September 28, at her bedside there was family, chatter, laughter, song, prayer and then tears. We like to think she enjoyed every minute of it, as Mom's wish to be surrounded by love in her final hours was granted. Prayers will be offered at 7:00 p.m. on October 5, 2016 at Korban Funeral Chapel, 907 Main St., Winnipeg. Celebration of Life and mass will be held at Holy Redeemer Roman Catholic Parish, 264 Donwood Dr., October 6, 2016 at 10:30 a.m., with Fr. Arockiadoss Savurimuthu officiating. A reception will be held immediately after, with interment to follow at All Saints Cemetery, 4535 Main St., West St. Paul. Pallbearers will be Rennie Balciunas, Danny Balciunas, Brendan Balciunas, Norm Stapon, Marijus Timmerman and Al Cesiunas. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Heart and Stroke Foundation, Winnipeg Kidney Foundation, MS Society or CancerCare Manitoba. Condolences for the family may be offered online at www.korbanchapel.com. KORBAN FUNERAL CHAPEL 204-956-2193 www.korbanchapel.com
Publish Date: Oct 5, 2016

ALDONA BALCIUNAS It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, Auntie, Mama B. and Mrs. B., Aldona Balciunas, on September 28, 2016. Mourning her loss are her children, Vida Balciunas, of Vancouver, BC, Rennie (Heidi) Balciunas and Daniel (Savitrah) Balciunas; and her beloved grandchildren, Carleigh and Brendan, of Winnipeg, MB. Predeceased by her parents, Jadvyga and Joseph Mikalauskas, husband Alphonse Balciunas, daughter-in-law Cindy Balciunas and dear friend Ed Woodward. She also leaves behind cousin Norm Stapon and family; sister-in-law Danute (Chester) Jankauskas; lifelong friends, Liuda Stuikys and Irena Vibrys, of Toronto, ON, as well as many cherished friends and extended family in Winnipeg, across Canada, the United States and in Lithuania. Aldona Aniceta Balciunas (née Mikalauskas) was born May 12, 1933 in Klaipeda, Lithuania. On October 8, 1944, at the age of 11, she and her parents were forced to flee Lithuania. With bombs going off in the distance and the front raging nearby, leaving all their belongings, they crossed through Poland, into Austria on the last known train able to leave the area. After spending four years in a DP (Displaced Persons) camp, they were able to immigrate to Canada, arriving at Pier 21 in Halifax. Her friendships with Luida and Irena were the blessings born from those hard days. Meeting Luida on the train when they fled and Irena in the DP camp, it was a bond that never broke. They moved to Winnipeg in 1948, after the generous sponsorship of the Stapon family. She met and married Alphonse Balciunas in 1953 and together they started a family. Blessed with three children, she became a homemaker and was an active member of St. Casimirs Lithuanian Church (from its inception to its close in 1999, after the passing of Monsignor J. Bertasius). As well, for many years (1972 to 1991), she actively supported and worked at the Lithuanian Folklorama Pavillion, honouring her beloved homeland. Aldona was charismatic, kind, generous and had an amazing sense of humour. She loved entertaining, was happy when there was music, dancing, good food and good friends around. She had an affinity for monkeys and she adored travel, and it meant so much to her that she was able to return to Lithuania four times. She loved to tell the story of how her father, Joseph, always the entrepreneur, called and asked her to come over one night in 1957 to discuss a new possibility. Her father wanted to buy a small corner bakery that he had found. It was run down and in need of investment and ideas. With her mother in the hospital, Aldona made the decision with her father to go ahead and take the chance with the little savings that they had. Her husband Alphonse joined in on the new family business and they all collectively nursed the little corner business back to life, and Natural Bakery was born. Aldona remained so proud that four generations later, that business is growing and thriving, and is now the biggest producer of rye bread in Western Canada. More so, even until recently, she was the best and most loyal customer at the retail store, often using her lifelong and well earned "family discount". In her later years, she found a new home at Concordia Village II. There she had eight years of good people, a full social calendar, activities, family dinners, her 80th birthday party (the party to end all parties!) and with the support and love of her dear companions, Carina Oddidson and Tasan Halliburton, and dear friends, Mr. Ed Woodward and Mrs. Epp, life was full. Sincere appreciation to the residents of Concordia Village, all of you who make it the special place it is. Our gratitude always to the ER and 3rd floor staff at Concordia Hospital for all their on-going care and support. To Dr. Sawchuk and the WRHA home team members, with your help we were able to keep Aldona comfortable and happy at home for as long as she could be. That was a priceless gift and we are all very grateful. On September 28, at her bedside there was family, chatter, laughter, song, prayer and then tears. We like to think she enjoyed every minute of it, as Mom's wish to be surrounded by love in her final hours was granted. Prayers will be offered at 7:00 p.m. on October 5, 2016 at Korban Funeral Chapel, 907 Main St., Winnipeg. Celebration of Life and mass will be held at Holy Redeemer Roman Catholic Parish, 264 Donwood Dr., October 6, 2016 at 10:30 a.m., with Fr. Arockiadoss Savurimuthu officiating. A reception will be held immediately after, with interment to follow at All Saints Cemetery, 4535 Main St., West St. Paul. Pallbearers will be Rennie Balciunas, Danny Balciunas, Brendan Balciunas, Norm Stapon, Marijus Timmerman and Al Cesiunas. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Heart and Stroke Foundation, Winnipeg Kidney Foundation, MS Society or CancerCare Manitoba. Condolences for the family may be offered online at www.korbanchapel.com. KORBAN FUNERAL CHAPEL 204-956-2193 www.korbanchapel.com
Publish Date: Oct 5, 2016

ALDONA BALCIUNAS It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, Auntie, Mama B. and Mrs. B., Aldona Balciunas, on September 28, 2016. Mourning her loss are her children, Vida Balciunas, of Vancouver, BC, Rennie (Heidi) Balciunas and Daniel (Savitrah) Balciunas; and her beloved grandchildren, Carleigh and Brendan, of Winnipeg, MB. Predeceased by her parents, Jadvyga and Joseph Mikalauskas, husband Alphonse Balciunas, daughter-in-law Cindy Balciunas and dear friend Ed Woodward. She also leaves behind cousin Norm Stapon and family; sister-in-law Danute (Chester) Jankauskas; lifelong friends, Liuda Stuikys and Irena Vibrys, of Toronto, ON, as well as many cherished friends and extended family in Winnipeg, across Canada, the United States and in Lithuania. Aldona Aniceta Balciunas (née Mikalauskas) was born May 12, 1933 in Klaipeda, Lithuania. On October 8, 1944, at the age of 11, she and her parents were forced to flee Lithuania. With bombs going off in the distance and the front raging nearby, leaving all their belongings, they crossed through Poland, into Austria on the last known train able to leave the area. After spending four years in a DP (Displaced Persons) camp, they were able to immigrate to Canada, arriving at Pier 21 in Halifax. Her friendships with Luida and Irena were the blessings born from those hard days. Meeting Luida on the train when they fled and Irena in the DP camp, it was a bond that never broke. They moved to Winnipeg in 1948, after the generous sponsorship of the Stapon family. She met and married Alphonse Balciunas in 1953 and together they started a family. Blessed with three children, she became a homemaker and was an active member of St. Casimirs Lithuanian Church (from its inception to its close in 1999, after the passing of Monsignor J. Bertasius). As well, for many years (1972 to 1991), she actively supported and worked at the Lithuanian Folklorama Pavillion, honouring her beloved homeland. Aldona was charismatic, kind, generous and had an amazing sense of humour. She loved entertaining, was happy when there was music, dancing, good food and good friends around. She had an affinity for monkeys and she adored travel, and it meant so much to her that she was able to return to Lithuania four times. She loved to tell the story of how her father, Joseph, always the entrepreneur, called and asked her to come over one night in 1957 to discuss a new possibility. Her father wanted to buy a small corner bakery that he had found. It was run down and in need of investment and ideas. With her mother in the hospital, Aldona made the decision with her father to go ahead and take the chance with the little savings that they had. Her husband Alphonse joined in on the new family business and they all collectively nursed the little corner business back to life, and Natural Bakery was born. Aldona remained so proud that four generations later, that business is growing and thriving, and is now the biggest producer of rye bread in Western Canada. More so, even until recently, she was the best and most loyal customer at the retail store, often using her lifelong and well earned "family discount". In her later years, she found a new home at Concordia Village II. There she had eight years of good people, a full social calendar, activities, family dinners, her 80th birthday party (the party to end all parties!) and with the support and love of her dear companions, Carina Oddidson and Tasan Halliburton, and dear friends, Mr. Ed Woodward and Mrs. Epp, life was full. Sincere appreciation to the residents of Concordia Village, all of you who make it the special place it is. Our gratitude always to the ER and 3rd floor staff at Concordia Hospital for all their on-going care and support. To Dr. Sawchuk and the WRHA home team members, with your help we were able to keep Aldona comfortable and happy at home for as long as she could be. That was a priceless gift and we are all very grateful. On September 28, at her bedside there was family, chatter, laughter, song, prayer and then tears. We like to think she enjoyed every minute of it, as Mom's wish to be surrounded by love in her final hours was granted. Prayers will be offered at 7:00 p.m. on October 5, 2016 at Korban Funeral Chapel, 907 Main St., Winnipeg. Celebration of Life and mass will be held at Holy Redeemer Roman Catholic Parish, 264 Donwood Dr., October 6, 2016 at 10:30 a.m., with Fr. Arockiadoss Savurimuthu officiating. A reception will be held immediately after, with interment to follow at All Saints Cemetery, 4535 Main St., West St. Paul. Pallbearers will be Rennie Balciunas, Danny Balciunas, Brendan Balciunas, Norm Stapon, Marijus Timmerman and Al Cesiunas. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Heart and Stroke Foundation, Winnipeg Kidney Foundation, MS Society or CancerCare Manitoba. Condolences for the family may be offered online at www.korbanchapel.com. KORBAN FUNERAL CHAPEL 204-956-2193 www.korbanchapel.com
Publish Date: Oct 5, 2016

ALDONA BALCIUNAS It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, Auntie, Mama B. and Mrs. B., Aldona Balciunas, on September 28, 2016. Mourning her loss are her children, Vida Balciunas, of Vancouver, BC, Rennie (Heidi) Balciunas and Daniel (Savitrah) Balciunas; and her beloved grandchildren, Carleigh and Brendan, of Winnipeg, MB. Predeceased by her parents, Jadvyga and Joseph Mikalauskas, husband Alphonse Balciunas, daughter-in-law Cindy Balciunas and dear friend Ed Woodward. She also leaves behind cousin Norm Stapon and family; sister-in-law Danute (Chester) Jankauskas; lifelong friends, Liuda Stuikys and Irena Vibrys, of Toronto, ON, as well as many cherished friends and extended family in Winnipeg, across Canada, the United States and in Lithuania. Aldona Aniceta Balciunas (née Mikalauskas) was born May 12, 1933 in Klaipeda, Lithuania. On October 8, 1944, at the age of 11, she and her parents were forced to flee Lithuania. With bombs going off in the distance and the front raging nearby, leaving all their belongings, they crossed through Poland, into Austria on the last known train able to leave the area. After spending four years in a DP (Displaced Persons) camp, they were able to immigrate to Canada, arriving at Pier 21 in Halifax. Her friendships with Luida and Irena were the blessings born from those hard days. Meeting Luida on the train when they fled and Irena in the DP camp, it was a bond that never broke. They moved to Winnipeg in 1948, after the generous sponsorship of the Stapon family. She met and married Alphonse Balciunas in 1953 and together they started a family. Blessed with three children, she became a homemaker and was an active member of St. Casimirs Lithuanian Church (from its inception to its close in 1999, after the passing of Monsignor J. Bertasius). As well, for many years (1972 to 1991), she actively supported and worked at the Lithuanian Folklorama Pavillion, honouring her beloved homeland. Aldona was charismatic, kind, generous and had an amazing sense of humour. She loved entertaining, was happy when there was music, dancing, good food and good friends around. She had an affinity for monkeys and she adored travel, and it meant so much to her that she was able to return to Lithuania four times. She loved to tell the story of how her father, Joseph, always the entrepreneur, called and asked her to come over one night in 1957 to discuss a new possibility. Her father wanted to buy a small corner bakery that he had found. It was run down and in need of investment and ideas. With her mother in the hospital, Aldona made the decision with her father to go ahead and take the chance with the little savings that they had. Her husband Alphonse joined in on the new family business and they all collectively nursed the little corner business back to life, and Natural Bakery was born. Aldona remained so proud that four generations later, that business is growing and thriving, and is now the biggest producer of rye bread in Western Canada. More so, even until recently, she was the best and most loyal customer at the retail store, often using her lifelong and well earned "family discount". In her later years, she found a new home at Concordia Village II. There she had eight years of good people, a full social calendar, activities, family dinners, her 80th birthday party (the party to end all parties!) and with the support and love of her dear companions, Carina Oddidson and Tasan Halliburton, and dear friends, Mr. Ed Woodward and Mrs. Epp, life was full. Sincere appreciation to the residents of Concordia Village, all of you who make it the special place it is. Our gratitude always to the ER and 3rd floor staff at Concordia Hospital for all their on-going care and support. To Dr. Sawchuk and the WRHA home team members, with your help we were able to keep Aldona comfortable and happy at home for as long as she could be. That was a priceless gift and we are all very grateful. On September 28, at her bedside there was family, chatter, laughter, song, prayer and then tears. We like to think she enjoyed every minute of it, as Mom's wish to be surrounded by love in her final hours was granted. Prayers will be offered at 7:00 p.m. on October 5, 2016 at Korban Funeral Chapel, 907 Main St., Winnipeg. Celebration of Life and mass will be held at Holy Redeemer Roman Catholic Parish, 264 Donwood Dr., October 6, 2016 at 10:30 a.m., with Fr. Arockiadoss Savurimuthu officiating. A reception will be held immediately after, with interment to follow at All Saints Cemetery, 4535 Main St., West St. Paul. Pallbearers will be Rennie Balciunas, Danny Balciunas, Brendan Balciunas, Norm Stapon, Marijus Timmerman and Al Cesiunas. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Heart and Stroke Foundation, Winnipeg Kidney Foundation, MS Society or CancerCare Manitoba. Condolences for the family may be offered online at www.korbanchapel.com. KORBAN FUNERAL CHAPEL 204-956-2193 www.korbanchapel.com
Publish Date: Oct 5, 2016

ALDONA BALCIUNAS It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, Auntie, Mama B. and Mrs. B., Aldona Balciunas, on September 28, 2016. Mourning her loss are her children, Vida Balciunas, of Vancouver, BC, Rennie (Heidi) Balciunas and Daniel (Savitrah) Balciunas; and her beloved grandchildren, Carleigh and Brendan, of Winnipeg, MB. Predeceased by her parents, Jadvyga and Joseph Mikalauskas, husband Alphonse Balciunas, daughter-in-law Cindy Balciunas and dear friend Ed Woodward. She also leaves behind cousin Norm Stapon and family; sister-in-law Danute (Chester) Jankauskas; lifelong friends, Liuda Stuikys and Irena Vibrys, of Toronto, ON, as well as many cherished friends and extended family in Winnipeg, across Canada, the United States and in Lithuania. Aldona Aniceta Balciunas (née Mikalauskas) was born May 12, 1933 in Klaipeda, Lithuania. On October 8, 1944, at the age of 11, she and her parents were forced to flee Lithuania. With bombs going off in the distance and the front raging nearby, leaving all their belongings, they crossed through Poland, into Austria on the last known train able to leave the area. After spending four years in a DP (Displaced Persons) camp, they were able to immigrate to Canada, arriving at Pier 21 in Halifax. Her friendships with Luida and Irena were the blessings born from those hard days. Meeting Luida on the train when they fled and Irena in the DP camp, it was a bond that never broke. They moved to Winnipeg in 1948, after the generous sponsorship of the Stapon family. She met and married Alphonse Balciunas in 1953 and together they started a family. Blessed with three children, she became a homemaker and was an active member of St. Casimirs Lithuanian Church (from its inception to its close in 1999, after the passing of Monsignor J. Bertasius). As well, for many years (1972 to 1991), she actively supported and worked at the Lithuanian Folklorama Pavillion, honouring her beloved homeland. Aldona was charismatic, kind, generous and had an amazing sense of humour. She loved entertaining, was happy when there was music, dancing, good food and good friends around. She had an affinity for monkeys and she adored travel, and it meant so much to her that she was able to return to Lithuania four times. She loved to tell the story of how her father, Joseph, always the entrepreneur, called and asked her to come over one night in 1957 to discuss a new possibility. Her father wanted to buy a small corner bakery that he had found. It was run down and in need of investment and ideas. With her mother in the hospital, Aldona made the decision with her father to go ahead and take the chance with the little savings that they had. Her husband Alphonse joined in on the new family business and they all collectively nursed the little corner business back to life, and Natural Bakery was born. Aldona remained so proud that four generations later, that business is growing and thriving, and is now the biggest producer of rye bread in Western Canada. More so, even until recently, she was the best and most loyal customer at the retail store, often using her lifelong and well earned "family discount". In her later years, she found a new home at Concordia Village II. There she had eight years of good people, a full social calendar, activities, family dinners, her 80th birthday party (the party to end all parties!) and with the support and love of her dear companions, Carina Oddidson and Tasan Halliburton, and dear friends, Mr. Ed Woodward and Mrs. Epp, life was full. Sincere appreciation to the residents of Concordia Village, all of you who make it the special place it is. Our gratitude always to the ER and 3rd floor staff at Concordia Hospital for all their on-going care and support. To Dr. Sawchuk and the WRHA home team members, with your help we were able to keep Aldona comfortable and happy at home for as long as she could be. That was a priceless gift and we are all very grateful. On September 28, at her bedside there was family, chatter, laughter, song, prayer and then tears. We like to think she enjoyed every minute of it, as Mom's wish to be surrounded by love in her final hours was granted. Prayers will be offered at 7:00 p.m. on October 5, 2016 at Korban Funeral Chapel, 907 Main St., Winnipeg. Celebration of Life and mass will be held at Holy Redeemer Roman Catholic Parish, 264 Donwood Dr., October 6, 2016 at 10:30 a.m., with Fr. Arockiadoss Savurimuthu officiating. A reception will be held immediately after, with interment to follow at All Saints Cemetery, 4535 Main St., West St. Paul. Pallbearers will be Rennie Balciunas, Danny Balciunas, Brendan Balciunas, Norm Stapon, Marijus Timmerman and Al Cesiunas. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Heart and Stroke Foundation, Winnipeg Kidney Foundation, MS Society or CancerCare Manitoba. Condolences for the family may be offered online at www.korbanchapel.com. KORBAN FUNERAL CHAPEL 204-956-2193 www.korbanchapel.com
Publish Date: Oct 5, 2016

ALDONA BALCIUNAS It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, Auntie, Mama B. and Mrs. B., Aldona Balciunas, on September 28, 2016. Mourning her loss are her children, Vida Balciunas, of Vancouver, BC, Rennie (Heidi) Balciunas and Daniel (Savitrah) Balciunas; and her beloved grandchildren, Carleigh and Brendan, of Winnipeg, MB. Predeceased by her parents, Jadvyga and Joseph Mikalauskas, husband Alphonse Balciunas, daughter-in-law Cindy Balciunas and dear friend Ed Woodward. She also leaves behind cousin Norm Stapon and family; sister-in-law Danute (Chester) Jankauskas; lifelong friends, Liuda Stuikys and Irena Vibrys, of Toronto, ON, as well as many cherished friends and extended family in Winnipeg, across Canada, the United States and in Lithuania. Aldona Aniceta Balciunas (née Mikalauskas) was born May 12, 1933 in Klaipeda, Lithuania. On October 8, 1944, at the age of 11, she and her parents were forced to flee Lithuania. With bombs going off in the distance and the front raging nearby, leaving all their belongings, they crossed through Poland, into Austria on the last known train able to leave the area. After spending four years in a DP (Displaced Persons) camp, they were able to immigrate to Canada, arriving at Pier 21 in Halifax. Her friendships with Luida and Irena were the blessings born from those hard days. Meeting Luida on the train when they fled and Irena in the DP camp, it was a bond that never broke. They moved to Winnipeg in 1948, after the generous sponsorship of the Stapon family. She met and married Alphonse Balciunas in 1953 and together they started a family. Blessed with three children, she became a homemaker and was an active member of St. Casimirs Lithuanian Church (from its inception to its close in 1999, after the passing of Monsignor J. Bertasius). As well, for many years (1972 to 1991), she actively supported and worked at the Lithuanian Folklorama Pavillion, honouring her beloved homeland. Aldona was charismatic, kind, generous and had an amazing sense of humour. She loved entertaining, was happy when there was music, dancing, good food and good friends around. She had an affinity for monkeys and she adored travel, and it meant so much to her that she was able to return to Lithuania four times. She loved to tell the story of how her father, Joseph, always the entrepreneur, called and asked her to come over one night in 1957 to discuss a new possibility. Her father wanted to buy a small corner bakery that he had found. It was run down and in need of investment and ideas. With her mother in the hospital, Aldona made the decision with her father to go ahead and take the chance with the little savings that they had. Her husband Alphonse joined in on the new family business and they all collectively nursed the little corner business back to life, and Natural Bakery was born. Aldona remained so proud that four generations later, that business is growing and thriving, and is now the biggest producer of rye bread in Western Canada. More so, even until recently, she was the best and most loyal customer at the retail store, often using her lifelong and well earned "family discount". In her later years, she found a new home at Concordia Village II. There she had eight years of good people, a full social calendar, activities, family dinners, her 80th birthday party (the party to end all parties!) and with the support and love of her dear companions, Carina Oddidson and Tasan Halliburton, and dear friends, Mr. Ed Woodward and Mrs. Epp, life was full. Sincere appreciation to the residents of Concordia Village, all of you who make it the special place it is. Our gratitude always to the ER and 3rd floor staff at Concordia Hospital for all their on-going care and support. To Dr. Sawchuk and the WRHA home team members, with your help we were able to keep Aldona comfortable and happy at home for as long as she could be. That was a priceless gift and we are all very grateful. On September 28, at her bedside there was family, chatter, laughter, song, prayer and then tears. We like to think she enjoyed every minute of it, as Mom's wish to be surrounded by love in her final hours was granted. Prayers will be offered at 7:00 p.m. on October 5, 2016 at Korban Funeral Chapel, 907 Main St., Winnipeg. Celebration of Life and mass will be held at Holy Redeemer Roman Catholic Parish, 264 Donwood Dr., October 6, 2016 at 10:30 a.m., with Fr. Arockiadoss Savurimuthu officiating. A reception will be held immediately after, with interment to follow at All Saints Cemetery, 4535 Main St., West St. Paul. Pallbearers will be Rennie Balciunas, Danny Balciunas, Brendan Balciunas, Norm Stapon, Marijus Timmerman and Al Cesiunas. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Heart and Stroke Foundation, Winnipeg Kidney Foundation, MS Society or CancerCare Manitoba. Condolences for the family may be offered online at www.korbanchapel.com. KORBAN FUNERAL CHAPEL 204-956-2193 www.korbanchapel.com
Publish Date: Oct 5, 2016

ALDONA BALCIUNAS It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, Auntie, Mama B. and Mrs. B., Aldona Balciunas, on September 28, 2016. Mourning her loss are her children, Vida Balciunas, of Vancouver, BC, Rennie (Heidi) Balciunas and Daniel (Savitrah) Balciunas; and her beloved grandchildren, Carleigh and Brendan, of Winnipeg, MB. Predeceased by her parents, Jadvyga and Joseph Mikalauskas, husband Alphonse Balciunas, daughter-in-law Cindy Balciunas and dear friend Ed Woodward. She also leaves behind cousin Norm Stapon and family; sister-in-law Danute (Chester) Jankauskas; lifelong friends, Liuda Stuikys and Irena Vibrys, of Toronto, ON, as well as many cherished friends and extended family in Winnipeg, across Canada, the United States and in Lithuania. Aldona Aniceta Balciunas (née Mikalauskas) was born May 12, 1933 in Klaipeda, Lithuania. On October 8, 1944, at the age of 11, she and her parents were forced to flee Lithuania. With bombs going off in the distance and the front raging nearby, leaving all their belongings, they crossed through Poland, into Austria on the last known train able to leave the area. After spending four years in a DP (Displaced Persons) camp, they were able to immigrate to Canada, arriving at Pier 21 in Halifax. Her friendships with Luida and Irena were the blessings born from those hard days. Meeting Luida on the train when they fled and Irena in the DP camp, it was a bond that never broke. They moved to Winnipeg in 1948, after the generous sponsorship of the Stapon family. She met and married Alphonse Balciunas in 1953 and together they started a family. Blessed with three children, she became a homemaker and was an active member of St. Casimirs Lithuanian Church (from its inception to its close in 1999, after the passing of Monsignor J. Bertasius). As well, for many years (1972 to 1991), she actively supported and worked at the Lithuanian Folklorama Pavillion, honouring her beloved homeland. Aldona was charismatic, kind, generous and had an amazing sense of humour. She loved entertaining, was happy when there was music, dancing, good food and good friends around. She had an affinity for monkeys and she adored travel, and it meant so much to her that she was able to return to Lithuania four times. She loved to tell the story of how her father, Joseph, always the entrepreneur, called and asked her to come over one night in 1957 to discuss a new possibility. Her father wanted to buy a small corner bakery that he had found. It was run down and in need of investment and ideas. With her mother in the hospital, Aldona made the decision with her father to go ahead and take the chance with the little savings that they had. Her husband Alphonse joined in on the new family business and they all collectively nursed the little corner business back to life, and Natural Bakery was born. Aldona remained so proud that four generations later, that business is growing and thriving, and is now the biggest producer of rye bread in Western Canada. More so, even until recently, she was the best and most loyal customer at the retail store, often using her lifelong and well earned "family discount". In her later years, she found a new home at Concordia Village II. There she had eight years of good people, a full social calendar, activities, family dinners, her 80th birthday party (the party to end all parties!) and with the support and love of her dear companions, Carina Oddidson and Tasan Halliburton, and dear friends, Mr. Ed Woodward and Mrs. Epp, life was full. Sincere appreciation to the residents of Concordia Village, all of you who make it the special place it is. Our gratitude always to the ER and 3rd floor staff at Concordia Hospital for all their on-going care and support. To Dr. Sawchuk and the WRHA home team members, with your help we were able to keep Aldona comfortable and happy at home for as long as she could be. That was a priceless gift and we are all very grateful. On September 28, at her bedside there was family, chatter, laughter, song, pra

As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Oct 05, 2016