Mrs. Olga Swidzinski, resident of the Yorkton & District Nursing Home, beloved wife of the late Ted Swidzinski, passed away on Monday, September 12, 2016 at the age of 93 years. Olga was born in Sandy Lake, MB, to Veronika and Metro Zibchyn. Olga and her family eventually settled in the Brandon School District near Kamsack where she attended school and lived and worked for most of her life. In 1939, she married Mike Swerhun. They farmed and often spent winters in Toronto and Winnipeg, working and visiting relatives. After Mike's passing in 1953, Olga moved to Toronto and worked in retail. She soon returned to her beloved prairies and "the fields of golden wheat". She continued working in retail (Metropolitan, Woolworths) in both Saskatoon and Yorkton. Olga married Ted in 1955. Together they built and expanded a successful farming operation. They raised three children in the close-knit farming community where Olga spent many happy hours socializing with friends and neighbours in their homes and at dances, sports days, card parties and the highway store. She was very involved with the Brandon School Community Centre. Olga grew up in a musical family and played several instruments by ear, including the mandolin and harmonica. She loved listening to music and had a rich and varied record collection. Her children still listen to and enjoy the music she introduced them to. And oh how she loved to dance! Olga is remembered for her joyful laugh, quick wit and sense of humour. She had a way with words and entertained all with vivid stories of her life. She also had a keen interest in politics and enjoyed discussing current events. Olga was an excellent cook. No one would go hungry on her watch, feasting on her delicious food, much of it made with ingredients from her large garden. Her perogies and pickles are spoken of reverently by those lucky enough to have sampled them. Most important to Olga was her family. Her devotion, hard work and giving spirit ensured that her parents, siblings, husband and children were well taken care of and supported in times of need. When grandchildren and great-grandchildren arrived on the scene she delighted in spending time with them and hearing about their adventures in the world. Upon retirement, Olga and Ted moved to Yorkton. The farm was still near and dear to them and they continued to spend summers there, enjoying many visits from their children and grandchildren. Olga was predeceased by her husband of 55 years, Ted; her parents, Metro and Veronika (Romanchuk) Zibchyn; brothers Pete and Len and sister Marie (Flodstedt); Mike Swerhun and brothers-in-law, Russ Flodstedt and Fred Naboznak. Left to cherish her memory are her children, Melanie (Harold) Malayney of Cold Lake, Marlene of Vancouver, Thad (Crystal) of Yorkton; five grandchildren, Matthew and Chris Malayney, Danica Lescano, Claire and Addison Swidzinski; two great-grandchildren, Mia and Brayden Lescano; sister-in-law, Eileen Naboznak; and nephews and nieces Len, Debra, Bruce, Fay, Barbara and David. Olga's smile would light up a room. Her strong, youthful spirit and kindness inspired us all. She was much loved and will never be forgotten. The funeral service was held on Saturday, September 17, 2016 from the Yorkton Memorial Gardens Family Centre with Rev. Jen Dresser of St. Andrew's United Church officiating. Danica Lescano read scripture and Crystal Swidzinski gave the eulogy. Pianist, Amanda Buhler led the congregation in the hymn 'Lord of the Dance' and sang 'Somewhere Over the Rainbow' as the recessional. The processional hymn was 'Somewhere My Love'. The interment followed in the Yorkton City Cemetery with Matthew & Christopher Malayney, Garry Tetoff, Myron Tatarniuk, Brent Cherkas and Bruce Flodsedt serving as the casket bearers. Condolences can be left at . Memorials were to the Heart & Stroke Society or to one's Charity of Choice.
