Category Archives: Obituary

Florence, Evelyn Mills

June 18, 1935 – Nov 26, 2020

It is with profound sadness that the family of Evelyn Mills (Bessey) announce her passing on November 26, 2020.

Evelyn was born in Kenaston, June 18, 1935, to parents Henry Vernon Bessey and Florence (Reynolds) Bessey. She was the youngest sibling, having 4 older brothers.

Evelyn grew up on the farm on the outskirts of Bladworth and on July 5, 1954 she married the love of her life, Ralph Mills. They moved to Kenaston and began a family, welcoming sons Douglas, Greg, Glenn and Kevin. Their days were busy, raising the boys, farming and socializing with friends. They spent many years following the boys’ sports and were very active in the community. The doors were always open to their friends and neighbours.

Many of the boys’ friends spent countless days at the farm and Evelyn became like a surrogate mother to them, often coming to their rescue when they got into precarious situations.

Ev had many passions in life, her family being number one. She loved to cook and bake , and was famous in the community for her buns, cinnamon buns, and pies. She was always an avid reader, right until the end, and later in life loved her puzzle word search books .

There was nothing better in a day for Evelyn than heading to the city and spending the days shopping. Lots and Lots of shopping, (and driving too fast to get there). She and Ralph loved to tinker in the yard, having many enviable flower beds and bushes.

Ev was a vital part of the building of Kenaston Place, and was proud of her seat on the Hall board and Rec Committee, as well as the local Sask Housing Authority. St. Columba Anglican Church was also a large part of her life. She was blessed to have so many wonderful friends, many lifelong.

Ev was so happy when the boys found their life partners. She always said she knew she would someday get her girls. Dawn, Shannon, Sue and Heather were very much loved. She was thrilled when the grandchildren started coming. Ev was born to be a grandmother and she loved them fiercely. Though Sheena and Cayden lived away, they would spend time at the farm. Candice Halter spent her childhood
living with Grandma and Grandpa. Landin, Ashton and Bryce Mills would visit almost daily, and she never missed their various sporting games, dance recitals, school Christmas Concerts, anything they
were involved in. She loved seeing pictures of her 2 great grandsons Liam and Jonah in Germany. She asked to hear story after story about Colter, and was thrilled with the news that there was another little one on the way.

Evelyn took pride in being a farm wife, a mother, and grandmother and in the last few years, a great grandmother. She moved to Saskatoon in 2016, first residing at Preston Park, and in Aug 2019 she moved to Warm and Cosy, where she was treated like a Queen. The family can not thank the care home enough for the care that was received.

Evelyn was predeceased by her husband Ralph, son Douglas, Daughter in Law Dawn, Brothers George (Joan), Fred (Amy), Gordon (Erma), and Lloyd (Madolyn); Brother in Laws Les Mills (Sylvia), Wally Melquist, and Ken Storrey, and nephew Lyle Pillipow.

She leaved to mourn sons: Greg and Shannon, Glenn and Sue, and Kevin and Heather Grandchildren: Sheena (Ken), Cayden (Linda), Candace Halter, Landin (Skylar), Ashton (Jarret) and Bryce
Great Grandsons: Liam & Jonah Mills and Colter Mills Her special Nieces Val, Lorna and Darlene, As well as many much loved nieces, nephews, and their families, and so many many wonderful friends.

The families would like to thank everyone for the flowers, cards, phone calls, texts and messages. It was a beautiful service, and we could feel the love from everyone.

The memories of Evelyn and the time she spent with her family will live in our hearts forever. Evelyn was laid to rest beside her beloved Ralph in the Kenaston Cemetery on December 2.

BENKO, Leonard Dennis

Nov 18, 1935-Nov. 28, 2020

Len, formerly from Kenaston, passed away peacefully, with family at his side, in Castlegar, BC.

He is survived by his loving wife of 63 years Betty Anton, children Brian (Deb), Cindy (Dennis) Negrin, and Rosanne Dyck (Al), 5 grandchildren, and 8 grandchildren. Also survived by siblings Val
Thurlow, Kenaston, Jim Benko, Abbotsford, BC, Jack (Lois) Benko,
Westbank, BC, Theresa (Eldon) Owen, Kenaston, sister-in-law Mary
(Andrew) Benko, Winfield, AB along with many nieces, nephews and
cousins, including relatives in Slovakia and the States.

He will be fondly remembered, and sadly missed, by all his family.

He was predeceased by his parents John and Frances Benko, Kenaston, granddaughter Kristina Dyck, brothers Clarence and Andrew, also his father and mother in law Eugene and Anna Anton, Kenaston.

Due to Covid restrictions a memorial service will be held in BC at a later date.

Lockwood, Susan Reta

With great sadness we announce the passing of Susan Reta Lockwood on November 26, 2020 at the age of 49.

She leaves to mourn her life partner of 14 years, William Suwala, her step sons Nat (Brynn) and Kyle (Vanessa), her mother and step dad, Eleanor Moodie and Earl Holmes, her father and step mom, John and Elva Lockwood.

Cherished always by her sisters and brothers in law, Deborah and Dick Rhodes, Kathleen and Mike Hicks. Her niece Cassidy Rhodes
and her nephew Beau Hicks. As well, her sweet kitty, Pepper. Also her extended Suwala family and many Aunts, Uncles and cousins.
Susan was pre-deceased by her step father Ed Moodie.

Susan was born in Davidson, SK on December 31, 1970. In 1977 the family moved to Duncan, BC on Vancouver Island. Susan graduated from Cowichan Senior Secondary School in 1988. She worked at a video rental store which began her interest in movies and movie trivia. As well, began her life long love of collecting movies.

As an adult Susan lived in her favorite city, Victoria, BC for a short time, before moving to Moose Jaw, SK where she met her loving
life partner Willy. To Willy, Susan was the love of his life and affectionately known as “his princess”. He lovingly cared for Susan, with great devotion, through many struggles and a long battle with Crohn’s disease.

Susan was fiercely loyal to her family. She had a sharp wit and was never judging of others. She was an avid supporter and new volunteer for SCRAPS (Stray Cat Rescue and Protection Society).

In the last year of her life, Susan became a part of the City Oasis Foursquare Church family. Susan proudly accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Saviour. He has taken her home in His loving arms.

A service will be held at a later date due to Covid 19.

EVASHENKO, Elsie (nee Sachko)

September 9, 1938- November 29, 2020

It is with heavy hearts we regret to announce the passing of our Mom, Elsie Evashenko, on November 29, 2020, at her residence Samaritan Place.

Elsie was born and raised on the family homestead near Cando, Saskatchewan where she was the second eldest of seven children. She was taught at an early age about hard work and family values.

Elsie attended Willowfield School and Cando School. After attending high school, she traveled to Prince George B.C., to take a position as an assistant cook at Moore’s Logging. During spring break-up, she worked at the Prince George Bakery, and then she headed back to Saskatchewan where she married the love of her life, Walter Evashenko on July 5, 1960. Together they purchased a grain farm near Vanscoy where they started a family by welcoming the first three of their four children: Karen, Roxanne, and Craig.

In 1966 Nutrien Potash Mine purchased their homestead. They found their final roots, our family farm, and the most welcoming place to call home, between the communities of Kenaston and Hanley. Walter and Elsie completed their family with the birth of their fourth child Jason in 1969. Together they owned a successful grain farm and cattle ranch. As a family the Evashenkos raised chickens, geese, ducks, turkeys, pigs, and milking cows. To complete the true homesteader’s lifestyle Elsie seeded acres of vegetable garden and preserved hundreds of jars of the harvested vegetables, while simultaneously teaching her children the importance of hard work.

Elsie was a true hostess as she always hosted family, friends, and neighbors. When someone drove into the yard, even a traveling salesperson, they did not leave without a coffee, or if it was close to mealtime, they were fed a full course meal. Elsie took pride in her children and often welcomed their friends into the family (you know who you are).

In 2006 Elsie purchased a new condo unit in Liberty Court in Saskatoon where she made a circle of great friends. She and her friends took pleasure in hosting gatherings for each other and going out for entertainment. In 2010 Elsie started her long, hard journey with Dementia which led her down many difficult paths over
the years. Elsie traveled these paths with her children and their families by her side.

Elsie has left her children and grandchildren with many valuable lessons. She has shared memories, stories and recipes that will last forever.

Elsie is survived by her four children, Karen (Dale) Reeves, Roxanne (Perry) Anderson, Craig (Janet) Evashenko, Jason (Roxanne) Evashenko; grandchildren, Tracy (Dustin) Shaw, Chelsea (Travis) Remmen, Jessie (Regan) Evashenko, Nikki Evashenko, Cole (Leanne) Anderson, Karlee (Austin) Anderson, Brandi Anderson, Alyssa (Luke) Evashenko., great grandchildren, Nash Shaw, Grayson and Tatum Remmen, siblings Margaret (James) McConaghy, Walter (Marlene) Sachko, Judy Hrycuik, and Jeannette (Andy) Krakowetz, sister-in-laws, Fran Lajeunesse and Dinah Holowach, as well many nephews and nieces. Elsie was predeceased by her husband Walter Evashenko, grandchild Ashley Anderson, parents Mary and James Sachko, in-laws, Peter and Olive Evashenko, her brothers, Edward and David Sachko, brothers-in- laws, Eli Hrycuik, Bill Soroka, and Bill Holowach, sister-in-law, Gladys Soroka, and her nephews, Neil, David, and Gordon McConaghy.

COVID-19 is restricting the way we would have celebrated Mom’s life. The funeral will be held in Kenaston with immediate family, and Elsie’s final resting place will be beside Walter at the Woodlawn Cemetery in Saskatoon For those so wishing donations may be directed to: The Saskatchewan Diabetes Assoc, 104-2301 Ave C. North, Saskatoon, SK S7L 5Z5..

Arrangements are entrusted to Hanson’s Funeral Home in Davidson.

Yohnke, Mervin Wayne

1949 – 2020

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Mervin Wayne Yohnke on October 23, He passed away peacefully at the Regina General Hospital at the age of 71.

He will be fondly remembered, and never forgotten, by his Mother – Ilene Yohnke, Brother – Irvin Yohnke (Judi), Sisters – Darlene Palmer and Margo (Shawn) Shaw. Mervin is also survived by his sister-in-law Alison Jensen, numerous nieces and nephews, cousins, great-nieces and nephews and great-great nieces and nephews.

He is predeceased by his Father – William (Bill) Yohnke, step Father Dale Jensen, Brother Montey Jensen, Brother-in-law John (Jack) Palmer, Grandmother and Grandfather Roy and Linda Arnold, Emel and Ida Yohnke.

Mervin was born in Edson Alberta on October 14, 1949. He was raised and grew up in several towns in Alberta and Saskatchewan during his childhood due to his parent’s work. He then, as an adult, moved and set up roots in Moose Jaw Saskatchewan, where he resided until his passing.

Mervin loved dogs (of all sizes and kinds). He classed his last two boys as his children “Casper” and “Hobo.” Mervin was also a hands-on kind of man. His passion was “The Yohnke Woodshop” which he created into a small business in a couple of shops in Tuxford Sask. He would take the drive to this little town just outside of Moose Jaw to so some woodworking, reclaiming old antique furniture or some computer graphics in his shop.

He loved the serenity of this small town and was hoping that one day he could retire and live the rest of his life in this peaceful place.

Mervin was such a kind-hearted soul. He had some very close dear friends, which he spoke of often. He loved social gatherings and his sister’s farm. He would make a day or a weekend outing, driving west of Bladworth just to spend some time on the farm. Mervin will be sadly missed forever and loved by family and friends.

“Dream as if you’ll live forever, Live as if you’ll die today.” – James Dean

Hanson’s Funeral Home of Davidson in care of arrangements.

Prpick, ‘Bea’ Beatrice

It is with great sadness that the Family of ‘Bea’ Beatrice Prpick, announces her passing at the Davidson Health Centre on the Thanksgiving weekend, October 9, 2020.

She is lovingly remembered by her husband Stan ‘Bud’ Prpick, of nearly 62 years and her six children and their families: Vonné (Everett) Johnson, Renée Prpick White, Tom (Gail) Prpick, Rocky
(Christina) Prpick, Tracy (Brent) Bergen, Stephanie Prpick-Boss (Stephen Boss) and her twelve grandchildren and three great grandchildren.

Bea is also survived by her only sister, Marg Thompson, sister-in-law, Janet Prpick and many nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her parents, Cornelius ‘Neil’ & Ethel Cooney and many in-laws, including Emil & Anna Prpich.

Bea was born in Tisdale, Sask. 87 years ago. She was raised on the Salm Family Homestead, south of Valpraiso, Sk. – it was 3 generations of her family living and working together on the farm. She has one sister – Marg, who would be her life-long best friend! Together they attended Arpsville country school and they also played sports together … the girls excelled in Ball, Hockey and Tennis, winning many championships.

The Cooney’s were a very ‘close knit’ family and enjoyed time together at the lake, sporting events, the Fairs and many family gatherings.

After High School, Bea moved to Saskatoon to pursue a nursing
career rooted in St Paul’s Hospital School of Nursing. Upon graduation as a Registered Nurse, Bea worked at St Paul’s Hospital for a year. In 1957, she and her new forever friend, Madeline Dierker, set out on an adventure and moved to California where they worked as nurses at St John’s Hospital in Santa Monica.

Bud & Bea met in 1953 when they were both attendants at a family
wedding in the Bladworth area. The couple were married November 15, 1958 and then moved to their farm north of Davidson, Sk. This would be where Bud & Bea would live, farm and raise their family of 6 children.

They lived a full life rooted in family, friends and Christian values. They were dedicated members of Davidson’s Sacred Heart Roman Catholic Church and she was a faithful CWL member for 56 years.

The Prpick farm was a busy place; Bea always had a big garden and cooked endlessly for her large ‘bunch’. She was a busy mother who took her ‘Motherly’ role very much to heart but she was equally the ‘Fun’ Mom. She had a quick sense of humor and loved to laugh. Bea attended so many of her kids’ activities and sporting events, often with a cooler full of food to share.

The Prpicks’ were regulars at the RINK. Hockey has been an ongoing
love for generations. Bea played hockey, she was a goalie. She thoroughly enjoyed watching her sons and grand kids play the game.

Then the weddings began to happen and the Prpick Family Tree
would grow again with the addition of grandchildren: Kaden, Erik, Ian & Quinlyn Johnson, Rockwell & Danika White, Dean & Bryce Prpick, Nate Bergen and Lexi, Eve & Joe Boss.

She was a very proud grandmother who attended many of their activities. ‘Nan’ was thrilled when she became a great grandmother to Wyndsor Bea & Sutton Johnson and Harvey Prpick.

Bea & Bud built their new home and moved into town in 2011. The
couple continued to be blessed with wonderful neighbours. Bea’s family and friends were always welcome and her generous personality drew many different people, of all ages, to her. She was gentle and loving, but she was also strong and resilient as she faced challenges with her health this past few years. Her brave, positive attitude showed us her character and she practiced her Faith as she persevered.

Bea’s Funeral Mass followed Covid-19 guidelines, and was held
October 16, 2020 at Davidson’s Sacred Heart Church. Father Joseph Thazhathemuriyil officiated, organist Mary Jane Morrison accompanied soloist Karen Reich, who beautifully sang some of Mom’s favorite hymns.

Prior to the service a poem was written and read by granddaughter Eve Boss followed by a Tribute given by her 3 eldest grandsons: Kaden & Erik Johnson and Dean Prpick. Interment followed in Kenaston, Sk at St. Andrew’s Catholic Cemetery.

BEA PRPICK , A GENEROUS SOUL WHO LAUGHED OFTEN
AND LOVED MUCH – HER LIFE IS A BEAUTIFUL MEMORY.