September 25, 1934 – April 12, 2022
It is with great sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved mother and grandmother, Veronica (Vivian) at Grace Hospital, on April 12, 2022.
She will be lovingly remembered by her children, Donna (Al), Cynthia (Don) and Vern (Maria); grandchildren, Adam, Laurie, Kristen, Nicole, Scott, Jake, Beau, Kellen, Devyn and Cody; sister-in-law Helen; brother-in-law Norm (Barb); and many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. She was predeceased by her husband Paul on March 6, 2020; her parents Anthony and Helen Penonzek; sisters Carol (Carrie), Gladys and Marion; and brothers-in-law, Bill, John and Nick.
Veronica (Vivian) was born on September 25, 1934 in Russell, MB to Anthony and Helen Penonzek (nee Kuz). She grew up with three older sisters, Carol, Gladys and Marion. In her early years she lived in Ruthenia, Shoal Lake, Angusville and Strathclair, MB. At age 16 she moved to Winnipeg and lived with her sister Gladys and her uncle Pete, aunt Jessie and her cousins. Vivian worked at Eaton’s and enjoyed going to dances, movies and bowling.
Veronica met her husband, Paul in 1953 at the Normandy Dance Hall and on June 25, 1955 they were married at Holy Ghost Church in Winnipeg, with the reception at the Polish National Hall. From 1955, Veronica and Paul’s journey was filled with so many memories. Mom/Baba shared many stories of her life on the farm and in the city. Veronica and Paul had three children and settled in St. Vital. Vivian was a stay-at-home mom and made sure we had everything we needed in our day-to-day lives, which continued with all of the grandchildren. Baba was an extra-special grandmother, and both Baba and Gig were a huge part of their grandchildren’s lives.
Baba spent many a day with all of her grandchildren, a lot of it surrounded by preparing lunches, after-school snacks, dinners or making perogies, holobsti or kutia. Many a time her family would arrive home from a holiday and there would be a stocked fridge and a homemade meal ready to eat. She loved to be a part of her grandchildren’s lives, from babysitting to watching hockey, baseball, soccer and curling; attending dance and piano recitals, and school musicals and drama productions. Baba especially enjoyed her trips to watch her grandson play hockey, as they took her from the west coast to the east coast, and to Austria and Germany.
Baba loved playing Kinsmen Jackpot Bingo on Saturday nights and was lucky to win a “big pot” once, and she loved going to the casino where she won once or twice or maybe more. Her other favourite pastime was reading or watching a good murder mystery, and she loved a good soap opera or a game show.
Many thanks to all of the staff for their care and compassion while Mom was at Grace Hospital.
There will be no formal service, and a family gathering to celebrate her life will take place later in the spring.
In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in her memory to the CancerCare Manitoba Foundation.
4 thoughts on “Veronica Zelenewich”
Vern zee,
My deepest condolences
Suzie Perrin
We would like to extend our sincere condolences to the Family. Veronica known to us as Vivian was a very bubbly, nice and sincere person that always had a smile on her face. She loved being in a casino and meeting friends. ” R.I.P. ” until we meet again and play cards.
Thank you so much for your kind words, Annette and Ron. You are correct about her love for the casino and meeting friends there. She so enjoyed playing and meeting friends there. She would let us know who she saw there and we would get caught up on our family and friends. We have very fond memories of your family. Cindy, Donna and Vern
Dear Donna, Cindy, Vern and families
Our deepest condolences in the loss of your dear Mother and Grandmother. Aunt Vivian was a special Auntie and Godmother to Gordon. She took an interest in family and would always call on Gordon’s birthday. We know she lived for her children and grandchildren. May your precious memories of your mom live on.
With our deepest sympathy, Gordon and Joan