Category Archives: Obituary

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.

RIGGALL, Larry Edmund

1940-2020

The passing of Larry Riggall, of Elbow, Sask. occurred on Wednesday, October 21, 2020 at his home in Elbow, at the age of 79 years.

Larry was born on December 2, 1940 at Balgonie, Sask. Larry worked in the Oil Industry in Calgary, Edmonton and Medicine Hat, AB. They moved to Elbow, Sask. in 2008. There he loved to play golf at Elbow and surrounding courses and fish on Lake Diefenbaker.

Music played a large part in Larry’s life. He played in the Regina high school band and then in a dance band. After retiring to Elbow, together with his wife Donna, they travelled to numerous surrounding small towns to entertain the residents in seniors’ homes with piano duets. Joining the Line 19 Community Choir was a natural for Larry as he had a wonderful singing voice. Never short of
words, Larry always had a new story from the past to add to conversations. His keen interest in technology was ever present.

He left his mark in Elbow’s Community Urban Orchard with the casting of concrete leaves used for signage in the orchard and in the peace garden. Larry’s sense of humour coupled with a ready smile and laugh will be missed by many.

Larry is lovingly remembered by his wife, Donna; two sons, Cory Riggall and Kelly Riggall (Kiersten & Megan); three sisters-in-law, Lynn (Roger) Sabourin, Peggy (Mahdee) Raies-Dana, and Joanne Riggall; brother-in-law, Ken Bobrowski; stepson, Darren Keck; and
numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, Wesley & Mabel Riggall; brother, Murray Riggall; and by his sister, Marilyn (Ed) Dunnison.

A graveside service was held on Friday, October 30, 2020 at 2:00 pm at the Elbow Cemetery, Elbow, Sask. with Rev. Ursula Wiig officiating. Social distancing and masks will be required.

Memorial donations may be made to: A charity of one’s choice.

Arrangements are in care of the Outlook Funeral Chapel 306-867-8255.