Nellie, was a warm, compassionate and vibrant woman who always went out of her way to help others – no matter what. She was a proud and dignified woman who had a passion for life. She had a wonderful sense of humour which endeared her to everyone she came in contact with, and it is a great testament to her nature that she formed so many long lasting friendships over the years.
Nellie Osarchuk was born on March 4, 1939. She was the 8th child out of 15 born to Maxim and Annie Weselowski. Nellie grew up on a farm in Lynnville District and attended school in the Southbay District.
Nell worked in Ninette, MB, and then the Brandon Institute as a nurse’s iide until 1959.
She married John Osarchuk in Winnipegosis on January 16, 1960, and lived in Winnipegosis, MB, for five years.
They moved to Thompson in 1965 when John became a field man for Midwest Drilling. She worked at the YWCA and was actively involved with the Ukrainian Catholic and Roman Catholic Women’s League.
In 1974, the family moved to Flin Flon, Manitoba. Nell was employed as a health care aide at the Flin Flon General Hospital until she retired in 2001. She remained active with the Roman Catholic Women’s League for over 50 years.
Nell and John had five daughters: Mary Anne, Debbie, Sharon, Heather, and Angie.
Nell was proud of where she came from. She could strike up a conversation with anyone. She would literally give the shirt off of her back to help others. She would often give change to someone who was less fortunate. Her generosity and kindness were her greatest characteristics. Whenever she baked or cooked she always gave most of what she made to neighbours and friends. She always made sure that she had enough for everyone.
Her greatest quality was her encouragement to make the best of everything and to face problems head on. She was a proud woman who believed that there was no obstacle that couldn’t be overcome. She had many friends of all ages. Even in retirement, she would have an endless stream of friends dropping in – she literally kept her door open to everyone and would feed you whether they were hungry or not. Nell has always been a support, strength, and comfort when times were tough. She loved her visits to see her daughters and their families. Her grandchildren were her pride and joy.
For the past year, knowing she had cancer, Nellie still continued to do all the things she loved to do. She lived every day believing in her faith and love. Her family and friends were her inspiration as she continued to live life to the fullest. Her daughters were by her side as she courageously battled her illness.
Nell is survived by her five daughters; Mary Anne (Les) Gott, Debbie (Ron) Willey, Sharon (Barry) LaRocque, Heather (J.J.) O’Donnell, and Angie (Pat) Chamberlin.
Grandchildren; Gott - Brittany, Crystal (Chris) Lycan, Travis
Willey – Amanda Morissette, Chris
LaRocque – Justin and Jordon
O’Donnell – Johnell, Austin and Landon
Chamberlin – Tanner, Noah and Hudson
Great Grandchildren; Brandon Morissette, Caiden and Tesslyn Willey, Quinn Lycan
Sisters; Pauline Parsons, Helen Pitch, Rosie Atamanchuk, Betty McKay, along with numerous nieces and nephews.
Nell is predeceased by husband John, grandson Logan O’Donnell, parents, three sisters, and seven brothers.
The Osarchuk families would like to express their gratitude to all of Mom’s friends and neighbours. Your thoughfulness through this difficult time was greatly appreciated.
Donations may be made to: St. Ann’s Roman Parish, 163 Centre Street, Flin Flon, MB R8A 1R1.
