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BETTY (ELIZABETH) HNATIUK
Born: Jun 16, 1940
Date of Passing: Mar 10, 2026
Send Flowers to the Family Offer Condolences or MemoryBETTY (ELIZABETH) HNATIUK
It is with so much sadness that we announce the passing of our much beloved mother, mother-in-law, grandmother, sister, niece, aunt, and cousin, Betty Hnatiuk (née Hildebrand). Strong in her faith, Betty passed on into Heaven surrounded by her loving family.
Betty will be so fondly remembered by her daughters, Michelle (Jason) and Cheryl; granddaughter Presley; brothers, John (Shirley) and Pete (Trish); sister Kathy; aunt Marge; as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, great nieces, great nephews, friends, and neighbours.
Betty was kind, thoughtful, strong, and brave. She was careful to do unto others as she would have done unto her. She was also very funny and a great storyteller. Her unique perspectives and gently shared wisdom never failed to be serenely accurate, concise, and true. She soothed. She cared so much for everyone she knew, and was always encouraging. “To thine own self be true,” she would say, and Betty most certainly was.
She lived in appreciation that the best pleasures in life were the simplest. She enjoyed the calmness felt under a big prairie sky, the relief of the return of geese in the spring, the thrill of enjoying a plate of pancakes with her granddaughter Presley, and the comfort of a good laugh shared with family and friends.
She really enjoyed stories everyone shared about their lives, and loved stories about the children of friends and family. Her granddaughter Presley could not have brought more joy to Betty with her singing, dancing, friendly ways, great big smiles, and thoughtful gifts.
Before raising her two daughters, and managing the family and household, Betty worked at Great West Life, J. H. Ashdown Hardware Company, and The Winnipeg Free Press. Always dressed to the nines in clothes she sewed herself with hair ‘just so,’ she went on fun adventures throughout Canada with friends and family. She even saw Johnny Cash in concert. Mom shared many stories of growing up in Lundar, Manitoba, moving to Winnipeg in the late 50s living in Wolseley, and going out dancing with her pals on weekends. The adventure of the ‘Blizzard of 1966’ was always a favourite story to share in the winter. She liked curling, always cheering for the Einarson team, and enjoyed post-game analysis during tournament season with Irene, her friend of 65 years, during morning phone conversations after enjoying her rye toast and coffee.
A million thank-yous are not enough to express the family’s gratitude for the care and support provided to Betty and her family by the ICU team at the Grace Hospital. You are wonderful, kind people, and your commitment to patient-centred care is remarkable.
A funeral will be held at Saint James Lutheran Church, 871 Cavalier Drive at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, March 24, 2026.
All are welcome.
In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to Delta Life Skills Summer Program at www.deltalifeskills.net/donate/ways-to-donate, or email president@deltalifeskills.net.
Publish Date: Mar 21, 2026
BETTY (ELIZABETH) HNATIUK
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Mom, Betty Hnatiuk (nee Hildebrand).
Mom was dearly loved and will be missed by all who knew her.
A funeral service will be held at St. James Lutheran Church, 871 Cavalier Drive on Tuesday, March 24, 2026 at 11:00 a.m.
A longer obituary will follow. Thank you for keeping our family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Publish Date: Mar 14, 2026
As published in Winnipeg Free Press on Mar 14, 2026, Mar 21, 2026
Condolences & Memories (9 entries)
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Dear Michelle and Family, I am so sorry for your loss. Your mom was such a special person, and I feel grateful to have known her. I still remember when I lived across the street on Sinnott Street and first met your family. Once we got over our shyness and became friends, I always thought your mom was the coolest, especially driving her Mustang. She had such a warm and welcoming way about her, and she always made me feel at home. I will never forget how she did not even get mad when she found the pet fish I had left in her freezer. I am sure she knew my heart was in the right place. As we grew older, she continued to be someone who cared deeply. She always asked about my life and my family, and it meant so much to know she was part of my growing up. I especially treasure the memories from our trip to Winnipeg with you and Presley. Your mom greeted us at the airport with such energy, zipping around with her walker and making sure we were comfortable and well taken care of. Her love for Presley was so beautiful to witness. It truly radiated from her, and you could see how much Presley felt it too. I wish I could be there to celebrate her life with you. Please know I am holding you all in my thoughts and sending my most sincere condolences. With love, Carrie - Posted by: Carrie (Family friend or former neighbor.) on: Mar 22, 2026
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Thinking of the family left to cherish the memory of Betty. May Gods comfort surround each oneof you as you continue life's journey without your precious Mother, Sister, Aunt and Friend. - Posted by: Claudette Williams (Friend) on: Mar 22, 2026
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I was blessed to know Betty as a neighbor on Sinnot St. She was a close friend who helped me to understand how to laugh at my troubles at the time and let the good Lord look after them. I remember her working for her husband , Dale , in their house and being happy to do so.She overcame her fear of driving and got her driving license even with her disability. That gave her freedom to attend church.Michelle was my daughter, Holly's best friend . Cheryl made myself and late husband,Russ laugh at every birthday party. Both girls gave us joy. Betty will always be in my heart and may Jesus give her a special room in heaven. - Posted by: Deborah (Old neighbour) on: Mar 21, 2026
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Dear Cheryl, Michelle, and family, It was always so nice hearing stories about Betty over the years. She was such a lovely lady, and I know she will be deeply missed. Thinking of you all and sending love. Kristen Hart (Minkus), friend of Cheryl’s - Posted by: kristen (friend) on: Mar 21, 2026
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Cheryl and Michelle, Sending my deepest heartfelt condolences to you both and all of your mom's family and friends. Growing up across the street from your family, the memories I have of your mom are full of gentleness and wit, your mom was truly special. She encompassed deep compassion and kindness and I will always remember the sparkle in her eyes when she smiled. It was obvious how deeply she loved and cared for her two lovely daughters, and that love will always be with you both, her granddaughter Presley, and the rest of Betty's loved ones. May you find comfort in one another Cheryl and Michelle, and with your family and friends as you are surrounded by love. Sending gentle hugs - Posted by: Amber Nolan (Rebizant) (Childhood neighbor and friend of Cherl & Michelle) on: Mar 21, 2026
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Cheryl and Michelle, what can I say but how lucky you both were. Betty (Mrs. H) was a class act. A lady of juxtapositions that always entertained. A big smile and a calming, curious, gentle exterior always greeted us. Stay awhile however, and one would notice the twinkle in her eye and slight smile that held a devil may care attitude. I adored it. At a time in our lives where we were fumbling and learning to “be women” she always led with such grace and wisdom. It clearly left an imprint on you both, but also for those of us who were lucky enough to receive a few words and winks. Be proud and know how happy she was to be your Mom. Xox - Posted by: Jodi Martin ( Guarino) (Friend) on: Mar 21, 2026
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Much love to you Cheryl and Michelle, Jason and Presley. I had the great pleasure to visit your mom every 2 weeks for many years to help her with taking care of her home (except during Covid when I wasn’t allowed ) Betty and I formed a close bond and she would talk fondly about her family and always ask about mine. I considered her as family and will miss her so much. Always remember her with a smile. - Posted by: Nancy Thomson (Friend) on: Mar 16, 2026
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Our heartfelt condolences to Cheryl & Michelle (and families) on the passing of your dear mum, Betty. She will always be remembered for the special place she held in our family and in our hearts. One of my most beautiful last memories of your mum is her steadfast faith in Jesus Christ. On my last visit to her home, we shared a lovely cup of tea and a deep conversation about the mysteries of God’s will. It’s a memory I will always treasure. May the memories you shared with her bring you comfort and peace in the days ahead. Thinking of you both and sending love during this difficult time. Love Lorrie & Simon & Maddie & Kyliah From Australia - Posted by: Lorrie Grace & Simon Keough (Cousin) on: Mar 14, 2026
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My condolences in the loss of your Mom. Betty and I met many years ago at the Winnipeg Free Press. The good old days. Our last visit was last fall when your Mom, myself and a mutual friend from the newspaper. We met twice a year for lunch. She bragged about her daughters and dear granddaughter Presley. I will miss chatting with her, may she rest in peace, she was a kind gentle person. Rosemary - Posted by: Rosemarie Carman (Great friend and co-worker) on: Mar 14, 2026
