Obituaries

Pollyanna Tessie Bobula Lefteruk

It is with deep sadness and gratitude for a life well-lived that we announce the passing of Pollyanna Tessie (nee Bobula) Lefteruk on January 22, 2026 at Grace Hospital in Winnipeg, Manitoba.

Early Years

Pollyanna was born on June 21, 1935, at Vassar, Manitoba. She was the beloved daughter of Katherine (nee Maczuga) and Paul Bobula, and grew up with her siblings, Mira Just and Roger Bobula. Her early years in Vassar instilled in her a lifelong appreciation for hard work, perseverance, and family.

The Story Behind Her Name

Pollyanna’s name carries a special legacy. She was named after the beloved character in the classic 1913 novel “Pollyanna” by American author Eleanor H. Porter. The story of Pollyanna, known for her unwavering optimism and ability to find the good in every situation, resonated deeply with Pollyanna’s mother, Katherine. When Katherine immigrated to Canada, she learned to read English using this very book. The lessons of hope and positivity from the novel not only inspired Katherine as she adapted to a new country and language but also shaped the spirit with which she raised her daughter. The name “Pollyanna” became a symbol of resilience and joy in their family and a fitting tribute to a woman who lived her life with kindness, faith, and an enduring positive outlook.

Education and Teaching Career

Pollyanna’s passion for education began early and shaped every chapter of her life. Alongside her siblings, she attended Burns School from grade one to eight, always aspiring to become a teacher and often playing “school” at home. When high school was not available locally, her Aunt Tess and Uncle Lionel Gagne welcomed her to St. Pierre for grade nine. This transition brought both cultural challenges and opportunities. Pollyanna’s classes were in French and she quickly achieved fluency, becoming trilingual in Polish, English, and French. Pollyanna’s determination and hard work helped her thrive in a new environment, and she graduated at the top of her class in 1953, the first class to wear caps and gowns.

At a time when teachers were in short supply, she completed a six-week teaching course and began her career at Overstone School, teaching eight grades at just eighteen years old. Pollyanna later attended normal school to earn her teaching diploma. When she and Boris Lefteruk were both teaching in Charleswood, they made the decision for Boris to focus on his university degrees while Pollyanna continued to work. Although she never had the opportunity to pursue her own degree, Pollyanna remained intellectually engaged and informed throughout her life, always nurturing her love of learning and encouraging those around her to do the same.

Pollyanna’s dedication to education was reflected in the way she parented and grandparented, fostering curiosity, independence, and a love of learning in her family. She encouraged her children and grandchildren to read, explore, and pursue their dreams, always sharing her creative approach to teaching and her stories from the classroom.

Family and Legacy

On August 2, 1958, Pollyanna married Boris Lefteruk, beginning a partnership filled with adventure, mutual support, and deep affection. Together, they raised four children: Davolyn Liusz (Ted), Rhonda Dmytriw (Gord), Allison (who passed away in infancy), and Leslee Lefteruk (Randy Harris). Pollyanna’s devotion to her family was evident in every aspect of her life, from her tireless work as a stay-at-home mother to her role as a cherished grandmother and great-grandmother.

Her legacy continues through her grandchildren: Allyson Liusz Regier (Andy Regier), Andrew Liusz (Stephanie Miranda), Lauryn Liusz (Dylan Janzen), Adam Dmytriw (Liza), Ian Dmytriw, Aidan Dmytriw (Emily), Meg Harris, and Blake Harris. Pollyanna was also blessed with great-grandchildren: Anastasia Liusz Regier, Alexander Liusz Regier, Myllo Liusz, Noah Liusz, and Henry Liusz Janzen. She was a guiding light for her family, always present with love, wisdom, and encouragement.

Community and Service

Known for her generosity and community spirit, Pollyanna volunteered at Saint Norbert School, managed dance clubs, canvassed for charities, and supported her church and neighbourhood. Her hands were never idle. She gardened, sewed, and cared for her family with boundless energy and creativity.

Faith and Resilience

She is predeceased by her parents, Katherine and Paul Bobula; her husband, Boris Lefteruk; her daughter, Allison; and other beloved family members. Throughout these losses and life’s many challenges, Pollyanna’s Roman Catholic faith was a steadfast source of comfort and strength. She maintained a vibrant and active prayer life, always adding family, friends, and anyone in need to her daily prayers. Even when she could no longer attend mass in person, Pollyanna remained deeply connected to her faith community by watching services on her TV and iPad. Her unwavering devotion and spiritual resilience inspired all who knew her, and her legacy of love, faith, and kindness will continue to guide her family and friends.

Pollyanna’s family wishes to thank all who supported her throughout her life, especially her daughters, grandchildren, and the caregivers who helped her in her later years. Her memory will be cherished forever.

A funeral mass celebrating Pollyanna’s life will be held at Mary, Mother of the Church Parish, 85 Kirkbridge Dr, Winnipeg, on January 27, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. Private internment will take place later. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of your choice in her honour.