Obituaries

ELSIE MARIE OSTAP

After a lengthy illness complicated by Covid-19, Elsie Ostap passed away at Deer Lodge Hospital in Winnipeg on February 24, 2021.

Born in Saskatchewan and raised in Reston Manitoba, Elsie’s first interests focused on education and sports which endured as lifelong pursuits. She excelled in many sports of which figure skating was a favourite. Obtaining a Manitoba Teachers Certificate Elsie taught children from grades one to eight in a one room rural schoolhouse. Her personal quest for learning led to the study of Nursing at St. Boniface Hospital, graduating with a Gold Medal for Bedside Nursing. Elsie practiced her profession with distinction, becoming highly respected among her peers at the King George, St. Boniface, and Deer Lodge Hospitals. Dedication to continuing education resulted in an Advanced Gerontology Certificate from the University of Manitoba.

Elsie’s true passion was for her family. As a nursing student she met an aspiring young artist named George Ostap, who captivated her affections with his wonderful paintings and offers of delicious hamburgers before the long night shifts. They spent the next 66 wonderful years together raising their daughters and enjoying their grandchildren. Many exciting trips were shared to Europe, the Middle East and in later years the island of Oahu, Hawaii. They were avid participants in Bridge, Gourmet, Bowling Clubs and supporters of the Bombers and Manitoba Theatre Centre, lauded on stage as one of the MTC’s longest season ticket holders. Walks through Assiniboine Park brought much pleasure, though Elsie’s favourite moments were spent with George on their backyard deck admiring the beautiful rock garden they lovingly built together.

Survived by cherished husband George, loving daughters, Beverley (Reg Modjeski) and Nancy (Robert Diamond), adoring grandchildren David (Sue), Ashley, Alex (Sari) and Marc and great grandchildren Beaudry and Benjamin.

Predeceased by parents Bill and Helen, brother Nick and sister Anne.

All will greatly miss her kind, loving heart and energetic spirit. Elsie was the best wife, the best mother and grandmother and the best friend to all the people whose lives she graced.

A private interment will occur.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Assiniboine Park Conservancy /Designation English Gardens or to the charity of your choice.