It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of the matriarch of our family–our beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother–affectionately known as Baba to all who loved her. Mary passed away peacefully on June 28, 2025.
Mary was born in Poland on December 7, 1935. In 1951, she immigrated to Canada with her family, settling in Geraldton, Ontario. It was there that she met the love of her life, John Hriciw. They were married on April 25, 1953, and soon after welcomed their three children.
A devoted mother and homemaker, Mary created a warm and welcoming home filled with love, laughter, and the delicious smells of her homemade perogies, cabbage rolls, potato pancakes, and sugar cookies. She had a deep love for gardening, caring for her family, and baking treats for anyone who stopped by. In her home, visitors were always greeted with tea, cookies, hugs, and heartfelt goodbyes.
Mary also worked at Pinewood Court until her retirement, taking great pride in her work and the care she gave others.
Her grandchildren were the light of her life, and she loved them deeply and unconditionally. Mary was a proud Baba who cherished her family above all. She found immense joy in watching her children grow and was even more delighted by her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Mary is survived by her children: Oksana (Guido), Bill (Judy), and Pauline (Phil); her grandchildren: Sheri (Joel), Mandy (Chad), Dawn (Kelly), Lisa (Chris), and Kelsey (Stephane); and her great-grandchildren: Brooke (Jake), Teighlor, Brady (Sarah), Koen, Carson, Arya, Lucas, Carter, and Claire. She is also survived by her three brothers–Eugene, Richard, and Michael–who reside in Manitoba.
She was predeceased by her parents, Henrik and Michelina Szyszkowski, and her beloved husband, John Hriciw.
The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Gleeson and the staff of the Birch Unit at Hogarth Riverview Manor for their exceptional care and compassion, especially during Mary’s final days.
Friends and family are invited to attend prayers on Friday, July 4th at 7:00 p.m. at Holy Cross Ukrainian Catholic Church, 415 Victoria Avenue W. The Celebration of Life will also be held at Holy Cross on Saturday, July 5th at 9:00 a.m., officiated by Father Andriy Stetsyk. Mary will be laid to rest by her family at Mountainview Cemetery, with a luncheon to follow at the church.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Holy Cross Ukrainian Catholic Church or to a charity of your choice.
Our world feels emptier without you, but the warmth of your love and the memories you gave us will carry us through. We will miss and love you every single day, Ma–our beloved Baba.
On-line Condolences may be sent to www.blakefuneralchapel.com
