Date of Birth: May 12, 1924
Date of Death: January 19, 2019
Maria Pilipow, known as Mary, was born on May 12, 1924. She was the third of seven children born to Steve and Nellie (nee Goreski) Ferleyko.
Mary grew up on the family farm near Melville, Sask. and received her education at Reimer School. Once she completed her schooling, she moved to her Auntie Mary Bish’s farm, where she helped with the chores and assisted with raising the children.
On June 26, 1945, Mary was united in marriage to Alex Pilipow at St. Mary The Protectress Ukrainian Orthodox Church in Melville, Sask. They were blessed with two children, a son, Larry, and a daughter who died at birth.
Mary and Alex spent the first year of their marriage living with Alex’s parents, then in 1946 they purchased some land which was the start of their own farming operation. Here they raised hogs, poultry and had a few cows, which they milked by hand. In 1957 they decided to go into a full scale dairy operation which became known as Fensask Dairy.
Mary was actively involved in the dairy as well as other farming operations, which included hauling milk to town and taking lunch out to the field.
Mary was a warm and caring person who loved to entertain. She loved having friends and family over, making sure they never left hungry. Many winter evenings were spent playing cards with friends late into the night. Nieces and nephews loved going to the farm for holidays because Auntie Mary would let them do as they pleased and spoiled them to no end.
As retirement approached, Mary and Alex purchased a motorhome and did some travelling, visiting friends and relatives. In 1989, Mary and Alex officially retired and moved to Melville. Mary became very active with the St. Mary Orthodox Ladies Aid where she was secretary for many years. She also helped with the Meals on Wheels program.
Mary’s greatest joy in life was spending time with her two grandchildren. She loved being involved in every aspect of their lives especially watching them Ukrainian dance. She was there for every step as they grew up, sharing in their joy as they got married, and was blessed to welcome her five great-grandchildren.
Mary became a resident of St. Paul Lutheran Home in 2014 due to failing health, where she resided until entering her eternal rest on Saturday, Jan. 19, 2019 at the age of 94 years.
She was predeceased by her parents; husband, Alex; infant daughter; and siblings, Willie, John, Joe, Rudy and Lena.
She leaves to cherish her memory: her son, Larry (Bev); granddaughter, Kerri Ann (Ian); grandson, Tyler (Amanda); great-grandchildren, Abygail, Carter, Andrew, Madylin and Bradley; brother, Albert; sisters-in-law, Caroline, Nellie and Hazel; and brother-in-law, Edward (Dolores); and many nieces and nephews.
Prayer service were held on Thursday, Jan. 24, 2019 from the Chapel of Bailey’s Funeral Home in Melville with Rev. Fr. Michael Faryna from the Orthodox faith officiating. The funeral service was held on Friday, Jan. 25, 2019 from the Chapel of Bailey’s Funeral Home, Melville.
Arrangements were by Bailey’s Funeral Home, Melville.
