Obituary of Helen Bodnarek

The family of Helen Bodarek of Melville, widow of George Bodnarek sadly announce her passing on Sunday, July 2, 2023. Helen was 92 years of age.

Prayers will be held on Thursday, July 6 at 7:00p.m. from the Chapel of Bailey's Funeral Home, Melville.

The Funeral Service will take place on Friday, July 7 at 10:00a.m. from St. Mark's Orthodox Church, Yorkton.

The interment will follow in the Yorkton City Cemetery.

Helen Bodnarek, beloved wife, mother and baba, passed away peacefully at St. Paul’s Lutheran Home on July 2, 2023, at the age of 92. Helen was born March 12 ,1931 in Hamton, Saskatchewan to Anastasia (Zaharia) and John Prokopetz. On October 30, 1949, Helen was united in marriage to George Bodnarek in Veregin, Saskatchewan. They were blessed with four children; Dennis, Donna, Ruby and Shelly, seven grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren.

 Helen was a graceful lady full of love for her family. In her younger years, she raised her family while working on the farm. Helen’s yard always looked immaculate with an abundance of flowers and bountiful garden - everyone left her home well fed.

Her family was always first and foremost in her life. Helen attended all her grandchildren’s graduations and weddings no matter the distance. She also enjoyed attending some of her great grandchildren’s activities.

Helen’s Orthodox faith was of great importance to her as well as her Ukrainian heritage that she passed down to her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.

Helen was predeceased by her husband, George Bodnarek, parents John and Anastasia Prokopetz, step father John Tomek; brothers, Bill and George Prokopetz; sisters, Mary Kozmech, Lena Krepakevich, Olga Kindrat, Edna Kripps, Anne Yuzik, Betty Matcyk, Doris Napora and son-in-law John Ellison. Helen leaves to be mourned by her son Dennis (Gwen), children David (Kim) – Hayley, Madysen and Mason; Geoff, daughter Donna Ellison, children, Shawn (Clay) Watson – Harley and Dani; Jacquilynne (Andrew) Wickson – Oakley; daughter Ruby and Mark Perkins; daughter Shelly (Tim) Beres, children Sarah (Ian) Francis – Tanner and Aiden; Megan (Owen) Thiedig – Rhen and Mya; Kyle (Emily) – Jace; sister Pauline Bodnarek, sisters in law Mary Prokopetz, Mary Laakso and numerous nieces and nephews.