Irene Elsie Yurashak (nee Hluchaniuk) passed away with a heart full of love and a soul full of incredible memories at Royal University Hospital in Saskatoon on October 30, 2017 at the age of 74. “I have literally never seen such a big heart” said her cardiologist! It’s true; all her life Irene gave people her unconditional love, time and had a core belief to help in any way she could. She gave tirelessly to everyone and her profound connection to the church gave her life so much joy. A beautiful soul with overwhelming compassion and the best hug that all who knew her still feel. Her brilliant smile will never stop lighting up our hearts. A tireless activist doing the right things just because it’s the right thing, she truly made this world a better place for everyone~ All our love…we miss you dearly… Irene was predeceased by her amazing parents John and Ann Hluchaniuk and her brother-in-law Lloyd Hartman. Irene is survived by her ever-loving husband Walter of 54 years, her lucky children Laurissa (Scott) and Susan (Hank), grandchildren Holly, Dawson, Justin (Jenn), and Jack as well as her great grandchild, James.Irene is remembered by her loving and spirited sisters Eileen Hartman and Sonia (Damien) Luciuk as well as numerous adored nephews and nieces that held a special place in her heart. Irene was born in Nipawin, SK on March 11, 1943. She attended elementary school in Codette, high school in Saskatoon, and graduated from the Saskatoon Business College. Irene worked with passion at Miller’s Florist, Mohyla Institute, and 30 years with the Saskatoon Health Region. Irene grew up cherishing Ukrainian cultural traditions, singing, dancing, and playing the mandolin. She sat on various committees including the Ukrainian Women’s Association of Canada, CYMK, Holy Trinity Cathedral, All Saints Ukrainian Orthodox Church, Ilarion Residence, Green Grove Camp, and the Ukrainian Museum of Canada. Irene sang in the church choir and danced with Yevshan. She was a talented artist, carpenter, sports woman, camper, volunteer, Pysanky and Varenyky queen, everyone’s biggest cheerleader, the Ukrainian MacGyver, an organizing machine, and anything else she decided to be. A Prayer Service was held on Sunday, November 5, 2017 at 7:00 p.m. and the Funeral Service was held on Monday November 6, 2017 at 10:00 a.m. Both Services were held at the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of All Saints, 2616 Louise Street with the Very Rev. Archpriest Peter Wasylenko officiating. Interment followed at the Woodlawn Cemetery, 1502 2nd Avenue North. Donations in memory of Irene may be directed to the Ukrainian Orthodox Church of All Saints.

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