It is with sadness that we announce the passing of our dear sweet Baba Lena at the age of 95. Lena was predeceased by her parents John and Pearl Herchak; sister Anne Rosvold; brother Bill Herchak, loving husband Edward, and two sons in-law: John Fiddler and Ernie Lillico. Lena is survived by her daughters: Linda Fiddler (Tom Neal) and Janet Lil- lico; grandchildren: Shelly (Peter) Oldford, Marty (Jayme) Lillico, Michael (Naiomi) Lillico, and Sheri (Robb) Pickering; greatgrandchildren: Laina Oldford (Nick Andreeff), Taylor Pickering, Cruz Lillico, Kallie Lillico and Dally Lillico; great greatgranddaughter Rowan Andreeff; as well as many nieces and nephews.
Lena was born in Horodenka, Poland. In 1929, her family travelled by boat and arrived at Pier 21 Halifax, Nova Scotia. They then settled in Saskatchewan. After some time, Lena met Edward, and from there they married in 1945. Their first place as a married couple was in Dawson Creek, BC. After a few years, they moved to Spirit River, AB where they started their family. Linda and Janet were both born in Spirit River.
Lena was involved with the Spirit River Museum, Cuisine Club, Happy Hour Club for many years, playing cards, but most of all BINGO!!! After Ed passed away in 1998, since Lena did not drive, she walked everywhere. You would see her heading down to the Post Office, and twice on Tuesdays for the afternoon paper. For many years she would also pick up her neighbours’ mail, delivering it on her way home.
She had many hobbies like sewing, building quilts, knitting and crocheting. Many blankets and slippers were built by her. She loved gardening, and planted her own gar- den up until she was 92 years old. If she wasn’t in the house you would always find her in the raspberry patch. Lena lived in her own home until the age of 92. Moved into the Lodge, then into long-term care until her passing. Lena was laid to rest on January 24 in a private ceremony.
Memorial donations may be made to Central Peace Palliative Care (Box 339, Spirit River, AB, T0H 3G0). Condolences may be sent by visiting www.oliversfuneralhome.com.