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Tiffany Sanford uploaded photo(s)
Saturday, May 2, 2026
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Baba Rose.
Rose Kowalchuk—though to us, she was simply Baba. And truly, a rose by any other name would smell as sweet, because everything about her carried that same warmth, comfort, and love.
If you were lucky enough to know her, you knew her kitchen first. You knew the ice cream pails tucked into the freezer, always filled with her famous chocolate chip cookies. We cousins would sneak them whenever we could—frozen or not, it didn’t matter. They were irresistible, just like her. Those same pails made their way everywhere in her life—filled with Saskatoon berries after long car rides, or reused again and again, a quiet symbol of how she never wasted a thing, especially not love.
And oh, her hugs. Don’t let her size fool you—Baba’s hugs were something else entirely. Strong, full, and never rushed. You didn’t let go first… because if you tried, she’d pull you right back in for another squeeze. And truthfully, none of us ever really wanted to let go anyway.
I loved going into town with Baba and Gido—those drives to Vegreville and Andrew felt like such a big deal, little adventures that meant everything at the time and somehow still do. One of my favourite memories was being picked up and taken to watch figure skating with my aunts, Baba, and Gido. I ended up getting an autograph from one of my idols, and it became a core memory for me. That was her gift—she made moments feel magical, and she made every one of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren feel deeply special and truly loved.
There was always music in her world—Anne Murray, Patsy Cline—and Baba clapping along, her joy filling the room. She loved to watch her grandchildren dance and perform, her face lighting up with pride. And when the music was right, she’d be out there too, spinning in circles with that unmistakable Ukrainian rhythm, polka dancing like no one else could.
Her garden was her pride, her flowers a reflection of her care and patience. And her meals—meticulous, abundant, unforgettable. You never left her home hungry. Not once. Even a quiet late-night snack didn’t go unnoticed—suddenly the whole fridge would be opened up, and you’d be sent home not just full, but with enough food to feed your family… and probably your neighbours too. That was Baba—always giving more than anyone expected.
I remember watching her get ready, completely in awe. Rollers in her hair at night, her quiet routine in the morning—her hair pick fluffing her curls just right, a touch of rouge, a spritz of perfume. I once asked her if it hurt to sleep like that, and she smiled and said, “pain is beauty.” And somehow, she made even that feel gentle.
Even recently, when I called her, feeling under the weather and craving comfort, I asked for her borscht recipe. I had my pen and paper ready. She laughed and said, “I don’t know how to make small amounts.” And then she began, “Start with one ice cream pail of beets…” Of course she did. Baba only ever knew how to cook for an army—because to her, there was always room for one more at the table.
Her home was filled with little treasures—her collection of bells from everywhere she’d been, each one a memory. And there were moments you simply knew not to interrupt—like during her soap operas. Heaven help anyone who disrupted that time, especially if Stefano and Marlena were involved.
To us as kids, she and Gido felt larger than life. The red jazzuzzi, that grand staircase where so many Christmas photos were taken… and where we were constantly told not to slide down the banister (though that didn’t always stop us). It felt magical, like they were famous—but really, it was just that they made life feel that special.
Through every milestone—graduations, weddings, births—Baba was there. Steady, loving, proud. A constant in a world that kept changing.
And that’s what we carry with us now. Her warmth. Her laughter. Her generosity. The way she made everyone feel like they belonged.
I love you, Baba.
And I’ll leave you with your favourite words—simple, kind, and full of heart:
Bless your heart.
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Nellie Ann McMillan posted a condolence
Tuesday, April 28, 2026
Over the years there has been many fond memories of Aunt Rose with family visits in Whitkow, then later in life a Sunday brunch in Winnipeg and many Kowalchuk gatherings in Alberta.
As a young girl, my Dad often drove our family on a Sunday afternoon from Alticane to Whitkow to visit various Ewanchuk family members as well as the Kowalchuks. I recall having meals that Aunt Rose prepared before heading back home.
Dennis and I lived in Winnipeg when we were first married and when Aunt Rose was there, she invited us for brunch. Along with Uncle Victor, there was four of us but enough food for eight or more...a feast of various dishes that were arranged on the table. If I remember correctly there was scrambled eggs, bacon, sausages, toast with 2 different jams, muffins, cinnamon buns, fresh fruit, juices and of course fresh coffee. Dennis and I tried or best to have a little bit of everything that was prepared.
Family gatherings continued over the years in Alberta. Both Dennis and I were made to feel part of the Kowalchuk family as we were invited to participate in celebrating someone's milestone birthday or anniversary. Aunt Rose always greeted us with her warm smile, a sparkle in her eyes and hugs.
I admire the way Aunt Rose lived her life. After Uncle Victor passed away and with all her physical aches and pains, she continued doing the things she loved and enjoyed. Our visits were less frequent but we still managed to connect at times, sometimes just a chat on the phone. She was a very special lady and will be truly missed.
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The family of Rose Kowalchuk uploaded a photo
Tuesday, April 28, 2026
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Jim and Carla Alexiuk purchased flowers
Sunday, April 26, 2026
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Jim and Carla Alexiuk
purchased the Yellow Designer's Choice for the family of Rose Kowalchuk.
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Sending Prayers and Love. We will cherish the memories.
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Denise Durie lit a candle
Saturday, April 25, 2026
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To the Kowalchuk Family,
May all your wonderful memories bring you some comfort at this difficult time!
My fondest memories are of your Mom’s kindness and of course always seeing her in one of her fabulous hats, that always brought a smile to my face!
She will forever be fondly remembered and cherished in my heart!
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Brenda Hayter uploaded photo(s)
Saturday, April 25, 2026
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JVC and family,
Your mom was loved by so many far and wide. It was so obvious how treasured she was by family, friends, neighbours and her community. Such a great tribute to her passion for life, kindness and joy. Jvc you are a great reflection of both your parents. You have been a great daughter to them both. Im sure they will find comfort together in their resting place. May you be comforted knowing you did your best. Xx Brenda and Joe Hayter
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Donna Fairbrother uploaded photo(s)
Saturday, April 25, 2026
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I am so grateful to have met Rose! We actually celebrated her last birthday together with JVC.
She was an inspiration to all and dearly loved.
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Kathy Berggren-Clive posted a condolence
Friday, April 24, 2026
I have the best memories of Auntie Rose. When my sister and I were very young, we would go to Whitkow for our summer holidays and stayed with Auntie Rose and Uncle Victor and our cousins, Janice, Bernie, Monica and Wesley. It was the best time ever. So many stories to tell. Rose spoiled us rotten and was the kindest person you could ever imagine. Her smiling face and beautiful laugh will always be remembered . ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
A Memorial Tree was planted for Rose Kowalchuk
Friday, April 24, 2026
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We are deeply sorry for your loss ~ the staff at Autumn Rose Funeral Home Join in honoring their life - plant a memorial tree
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Angie Henderson posted a condolence
Friday, April 24, 2026
To Rose's Family...
"When we lose someone we love, we must learn not to live without them, but to live with the love they left behind". Unknown
Let the memories leak from your eyes...
It was "Earth Day" when she left...how fitting.
I am deeply sorry for your loss.
