Obituary of Ethel Alice Swirsky

1930 - 2011

The family of Ethel Swirsky announce, with deep sorrow, the passing of Ethel on August 21, 2011 at the age of 81. She died peacefully with her granddaughter, Jessie, at her side.

We wish to thank the staff at the Kimberley Special Care Home and Dr. Haidek for their commitment to caring for mother during her long illness. A very special thank you to Karen Milhousen for her warm comfort to the family during the last days of Ethel's life.

Ethel was born on her family farm just outside of Hubbard, Saskatchewan on August 12, 1930. She came to Kimberley in 1949. Raising a family of seven children, she worked hard in the garden and did a lot of canning and baking, making sure the family was well fed. When her youngest children were of teenage years she went to work for Cominco as a janitor and took pride in doing it well.

Ethel loved her bowling, reading, gardening and tea. Also, her road trips to Reno and to historical sites, usually bringing at least one family member along to enjoy the adventure.

Well known for her excellence in craftsmanship which included knitting, crocheting, quilting and sewing; it was best enjoyed by her family. She made Christmases a most wonderful time of the year; filled with an incredible array of delicious dishes; she found a great joy in giving. But her greatest joy was spending time with her family. She had a sharp wit and loved her husband's great sense of humour. Her laughter was so contagious.

Being young at heart she loved having children around. At the age of 65 she even accepted guardianship of grandson Terry, with whom she had a special bond.

We may have lost mom - but what will never be lost are the good, good memories. She will be missed throughout every sunrise to sunset of our lives. May our nights be gentle - knowing she is at peace.

Ethel is survived by her children: Terry Ross (Pat), Marilyn Ross, Vicki Loraas, Michael Koshlay (Yvonne), Susan Foisy, Ron Swirsky and Ray Swirsky (Karen); her sister Olivine Ross; her brothers Donald Ross (Elizabeth), Merv Ross, David Ross (Peggy) and Leonard Ross (Diane); many grandchildren, great grandchildren, nephews and nieces. She was predeceased by her husband Rudy Swirsky in 2009; her father Michael Ross; her mother Hattie Ross; an infant son Ken Koshlay; her brother Freddie (Joseph Alfred) Ross and her sister Violet Yuristy.

There will be no funeral by request. In lieu of flowers please send any donations to the Salvation Army.

Arrangements entrusted to McPherson Funeral Service.

Condolences for the family can be offered at:

www.mcphersonfh.com