On August 14, 2023, Helen Shankowski of St. Paul, Alberta passed away at the age of 95 years. Helen was predeceased by her parents, Peter & Jennie Danyluk; husband, Walter; sisters, Mary & Rose; brothers, George & Bill; & son-in-law, Bob McDaniel. Helen will be dearly missed by her brother, John Danyluk; her three daughters, Ellen (Metro) Bodnar, Sylvia McDaniel & Lora (Dennis) Linton; two sons, David (Sandy) & Jerry (Tara); seven grandchildren, Thomas McDaniel, Taryn (Ty) Ramsay, Karly (Shayne) Cusack, Tanner Shankowski (Seanna), Noah Shankowski (Julie), Savannah & Isabella Linton; four great grandchildren, Navy, Boone & Jewel Cusack, Oakland Ramsay; & numerous family members.
Helen was born in the small farming community of Hairy Hill, Alberta and later resided near Elk Point, Alberta. She pursued a career in teaching and taught in one room schools in Richland and Gideon Lake. One year her favourite student was her brother, John, who she taught first grade. It wasn’t long before she married Walter and started her new career- mother of five children. Over the years they farmed in Elk Point, moved to Bonnyville where they purchased a hotel with friends Ted and Ann, and later lived in St. Paul, Alberta.
Helen was married to Walter for 68 years. After her passing, her daughter Ellen and son-in-law Metro graciously opened their home and invited Helen to spend her remaining years living with them. She appreciated this so much and the family is so grateful for the care and love she received.
Helen was a one of a kind (the best kind of) Mom and Baba. She was an avid reader who always had a book close by, she enjoyed time spent in the garden, and she cherished family gatherings. We miss her greatly already but will think of her often and remember her encouraging words, her kind heart, and her love for us. She was a gentle soul that touched all who knew her. A Funeral Service will be held on Monday, August 28 at 11:00 a.m. at Grace Gardens Funeral Chapel, St. Paul. Reverend Father Andrij Nykyforuk will be officiating, with interment in Holy Eucharist Ukrainian Catholic Cemetery, Elk Point. Those wishing to view the service online may do so by clicking the Live Service tab on our website. A recording of the service will also be made available. If desired, donations may be made to Haying in the 30's (Cancer Support Society) c/o 5626 51 Street, St. Paul AB T0A 3A1. To send condolences online, please visit www.gracegardensfuneralchapel.com
